Neogene sequence stratigraphic architecture of the Nile Delta, Egypt: A micropaleontological perspective

Abstract

The sequence stratigraphic architecture of the Neogene section from the subsurface Nile Delta is resolved based on exceptionally well-preserved microfossils from the offshore NDOB-1 borehole. The architecture is configured on bathymetry variations and statistical parameters as deduced from the relative abundance of foraminiferal associations. The statistical parameters include ratios of planktic versus benthic foraminifera, and cluster and correspondence analysis of the twelve most commonly used benthic foraminiferal genera as proxies of water depths. The combination of cluster and correspondence analysis was employed to decipher the evolution and dynamics of the basin and the mechanisms that controlled the deposition of Neogene sequences in the Nile Delta region. Four basic environmental settings were recognized: 1.) a middle to outer neritic eutrophic setting, 2.) a middle to outer neritic mesotrophic setting, 3.) an outer neritic to upper bathyal mesotrophic setting and 4.) an upper bathyal mesotrophic setting.Eight stratigraphic sequences were identified in the Neogene Nile Delta section. Three sequence in the Miocene (MSeq1, MSeq2 and MSeq3), three in the Pliocene (PSeq1, PSeq2 and PSeq3) and two in the Pleistocene (PtSeq1 and PtSeq2). These sequences are systematically measured and described in terms of time, space and water bathymetry. The sequence boundaries and flooding surfaces were dated using high-resolution microfossil biochronology and stratigraphic index markers. Individual sequences and boundaries were correlated with international and local sequence stratigraphic models. The new sequence stratigraphic model established here provides age calibrated surfaces for inter-basinal correlations and opens new avenues for hydrocarbon reservoir exploration.