Genetic trap variations in a growth-fault system: Downdip Wilcox trend of south Texas
- Wilcox Exploration Enterprises, Woodlands, TX (United States)
Analysis of a 180-mi segment of the Wilcox growth-fault trend of south Texas based on data from over 2000 wells, 16 structural dip sections, and 300 mi of seismic lines, has led to in-depth understanding of the complex structural system. Detailed structural mapping on two stratigraphic horizons has revealed an impressive array of genetic trap types arising from listric growth-fault tectonism. Variations on the general tectonic theme are displayed along the trend as follows: (1) a relatively dip-restricted central segment spanning the south Texas salt basin and exhibiting a pronounced influence of salt tectonism, (2) an eastern segment characterized by gulfward progradation of faults expanding successively younger stratigraphic units and terminated downdip by {open_quotes}rollup{close_quotes} shale ridges, and (3) a southern segment similar to the eastern one but bearing a pronounced northeastward tilted overprint due to Laramide uplift in Mexico. In map view, the trend is characterized by multiple sets of crescentic, nested faults with downdip projecting horns intersecting those of adjoining sets. Common trap types among those universally recognized in growth-fault systems include {open_quotes}rollover{close_quotes} anticlines and associated upthrown antithetic and counterregionally dipping fault blocks. Evidence of tilting of paleostructural traps is common; an excellent example of post gas-fill tilting is the giant northeast Thompsonville field, which has a 250-ft inclined gas column {open_quotes}locked in{close_quotes} by tightly cemented, water-bearing flank sands. Future exploration will likely concentrate on more subtle traps such as those of early growth, perhaps tilted paleostructures, basinal turbidite mounds, and undrilled blocks of intersecting fault horns. All are genetic traps in the downdip Wilcox trend of south Texas and should be present as well in other Cenozoic growth-fault systems of the Gulf Coast.
- OSTI ID:
- 96270
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-941065-; ISSN 0149-1423; TRN: 95:005100-0074
- Journal Information:
- AAPG Bulletin, Vol. 78, Issue 9; Conference: 44. annual convention of the Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies and the 41st annual convention of the Gulf Coast Section of the Society of Economic Paleontologists and Mineralogists, Austin, TX (United States), 5-7 Oct 1994; Other Information: PBD: Sep 1994
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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