Onshore–offshore structure and hydrocarbon potential of the South Yellow Sea

Abstract

Recent high-resolution airborne gravity data taken over the South Yellow Sea and its western onshore–offshore transition zone, combined with ground gravity data taken over the onshore area (Subei Basin), China, show that the South Basin of the South Yellow Sea and the Subei Basin correspond to the same gravity low anomaly. Magnetic data also support our interpretations. Both areas have similar strata, structures and hydrocarbon potential, and form a large Cenozoic terrestrial sedimentary basin controlled by the Tanlu Fault. Cenozoic terrestrial strata are well developed in the South Basin of the South Yellow Sea, and thick Meso–Paleozoic marine strata are preserved in the Central uplift area. Future hydrocarbon exploration in the South Yellow Sea should focus on the Cenozoic continental sequence, especially the Paleogene in the South Basin, as well as the Meso–Paleozoic marine rocks in the Central uplift area. The western part of the middle depression and middle and western parts of the north depression in the South Basin of the South Yellow Sea have the greatest potential for hydrocarbon accumulation.