High-frequency sequence stratigraphy applied to a strictly continental and fragmented basin – Case study in the Mesozoic record of the Parecis basin, western Brazil

Abstract

Sequence stratigraphy applied to strictly continental alluvial system can provide better understanding about the triggering mechanism and tectono-climatic control over sedimentation behavior. The Parecis Basin, a large intracratonics basin located in mid-west Brazil, have an understudied Mesozoic continental record, with an undefined lithostratigraphy and regional correlations. We thus applied a sequence stratigraphy approach to reassess the stratigraphic framework of the Vilhena Outcropping Area, which is the uplifted western border of the Parecis Basin, situated inside the Guaporé Block. Based on new field data and stratigraphic analysis, we identified three Third Order Sequences, registering the evolution of at least a significant part of the Mesozoic register. Three basin wide bounding surfaces were identified, being: the Mesozoic Basal Surface, Bounding Surface 1 and Bouding Surface 2, all of these surfaces can be traced to another outcropping areas inside the Guaporé Block, allowing the first sub-basin correlation of the Parecis Basin.