Unique Objects in the Cross-Section of the Eastern Black Sea Found Using 3D Seismic Data

Abstract

Unique vertical subsidence structures in Upper Cretaceous–Lower Miocene deposits were discovered and described in a section of the eastern Black Sea basin and the Caucasus continental slope, according to 3D seismic data. One interesting feature of these structures is a shape that is close to isometric on a map. Approximately 40 objects have been identified in an area of more than 1000 m2. “Bulls-eye” (“multiphase”) paleo-pockmarks (Andresen and Huuse, 2011), and karst collapse (Zuo et al., 2009) are proposed as analogues with similar wave patterns. The corresponding genesis models are considered, but none of the theories allows definite conclusions to be drawn. The discovered objects are unique and require further investigation.