Sequence stratigraphy in the context of the ‘modeling revolution’

Abstract

Abstract Confusions between methodology and modeling created a false premise to question the ‘future of sequence stratigraphy’. In reality, the future is already here in terms of a standard methodology. Despite the variability of the stratigraphic architecture, there are only a few stacking patterns that are diagnostic to the definition of stratal units and bounding surfaces, which can be observed at all stratigraphic scales. The identification of the diagnostic stacking patterns, at scales defined by the purpose of the study or by the resolution of the data available, provides the guiding principle of the sequence stratigraphic methodology. The modeling of the possible controls on sequence development plays no role in the methodological workflow, and can continue indefinitely after the construction of a sequence stratigraphic framework. Therefore, it is important to separate methodology from modeling in sequence stratigraphy. The standard methodology does not prevent future developments in the field of stratigraphic modeling. Uncalibrated modeling can ‘demonstrate’ any stratigraphic scenario, whether realistic or not. While the methodology evolved from a model-driven to a data-driven approach, uncalibrated modeling has become the new ‘triumph of interpretation over facts and common sense’. The latest trend in forward modeling is the shift from an overemphasis on accommodation to an overemphasis on sediment supply, to the point that all aspects of the stratigraphic architecture are explained by variations in sediment supply or even solely by autocyclicity. In reality, it is always a combination of accommodation and sedimentation, and both elements of this ‘dual control’ contribute in discernible ways to the architecture and makeup of the sequence stratigraphic framework. The methodology does not require an interpretation of the underlying controls on accommodation and sedimentation, but only the observation of stratal stacking patterns and stratigraphic relationships that result from their interplay. Muddling the distinction between methodology and modeling leads to unnecessary confusion and a reversal of the progress made in the development of sequence stratigraphy as a data-driven methodology.