Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

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Journal of African Earth Sciences

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Sequence stratigraphy of the subsurface cambro-ordovician siliciclastic

deposits in the Chotts basin, Southern Tunisia: Petroleum implications
Ramzi Gharsalli a, b, *, Mourad Bédir a
a
Georesource Laboratory, Water Research and Technologies Center, Soliman, 8020, University of Carthage, Tunisia
b
Faculté des Sciences de Tunis (FST), Département de Géologie, Campus Universitaire, El Manar, 1060, Tunisia

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: Subsurface study of the Palaeozoic deposits in the Chotts basin, part of the southern Tunisian Atlassic foreland,
Tunisia revealed an incomplete Pre-Hercynian deformed sequence. The remaining truncated Cambro-Ordovician silici­
Chotts basin clastic deposits appear to be unconformably overlain by transgressive Late Silurian – Early Devonian shales. Early
Petroleum
Ordovician El Atchane sandstones and Hamra quartzite constitute currently the most oil and gas productive
Cambro-ordovician
Reservoir
levels in the Chotts basin. The main issues encountered in the exploration of these reservoirs are related to their
Sequence stratigraphy spatial distribution along with their thickness and facies variations. Sequence stratigraphic analysis and corre­
lation of the entire Cambro-Ordovician section using sequence stratigraphic surfaces seems necessary to locate
both proven and prospective reservoirs in order to predict their spatial distribution and trend directions in the
region. Seismostratigraphic facies analysis of these deposits in subsurface highlights their sequence organiza­
tions. The integration of well data revealed in detail the sequence hierarchy of the Cambro-Ordovician deposits
throughout the Chotts basin.

1. Introduction hydrocarbon potentials (stratigraphic traps, Cambrian tight sandstone,

Petroleum exploration targeting the Cambro-Ordovician siliciclastic
reservoirs in the Chotts basin began during the early 1960s by drilling of
the first wildcat exploration well (Sabria-1). These reservoirs represent
currently the most petroleum productive levels in many oil and gas fields
located in southern Tunisia (Sabria, Franig, Ghrib, …) and in Algeria
(Hassi Messaoud, Hassi Rmel, …). They are generally sealed by thick
Mesozoic volcanics, shales or evaporate and sourced by mature Late
Silurian (Ludlovian–Pridolian) Hot Shale (Soua, 2014; Belhaj et al.,
2015; Aissaoui et al., 2016). The main issues encountered in the
exploration of the Cambro-Ordovician reservoirs are related to their
spatial distribution along with their thickness and facies variations. In
fact, these reservoirs could be partially or totally eroded by consecutive
Palaeozoic Unconformities (Arenigian, Taconic and/or Hercynian …).
Moreover, progressive shaling out of progradational clean sands, due to
deepening of the depositional environment in the basinward direction,
could affect their reservoir quality. It would appear clear, therefore, that
the Chotts basin still underexplored and that much remains to be done in
the aims to reduce the exploration risks and also to improve the petro­
leum prospectivity of this area, with significant undiscovered
…).
As a foreland basin, the Chotts area in the southern Atlassic front of
Tunisia constitutes the continuity of the Algerian Melrhir Trough (Said
et al., 2011; Gharbi et al., 2015, 2020; Khomsi et al., 2016, 2019;
Masrouhi et al., 2019) (Fig. 1). It’s bounded to the North by the Saharan
- Atlassic Flexure, to the South by the Touggourt-Talemzane-PGA-Bou
Namcha Uplift (TTPB) and to the East by the Permian and Jeffara Ba­
sins (Gabtni et al., 2006; Soua, 2014). This depression is occupied
essentially by Lower Palaeozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic deposits that
could reach a thickness of more than 5000 m. The geologic and eco­
nomic importance of the Chotts basin and adjacent areas in southern
Tunisia has incited several geoscientists to carry out many geological
and petroleum researches (Beuf et al., 1971; Bishop, 1975; Burollet
et al., 1978; Legrand, 1985a, 1985b; Bouaziz, 1986; Ben Ferjani et al.,
1990; Burollet, 1991; Ghenima, 1993; Bouaziz, 1995; Pogacsas et al.,
1996; Rigo, 1996; Hlaiem, 1998; Pogacsas et al., 1998; Klett, 2000;
Acheche et al., 2001; Bédir et al., 2001; Bouaziz et al., 2002; Gabtni
et al., 2005; Gabtni et al., 2006; Saïd et al., 2011; Gabtni et al., 2012;
Soua, 2013; Soua, 2014; Belhaj et al., 2015; Aissaoui et al., 2016). Most
of these studies have proved the structural complexity of the Chotts area,

* Corresponding author. Georesource Laboratory, Water Research and Technologies Center, Soliman, 8020, University of Carthage, Tunisia, .
E-mail address: gharsalli.ramzi@gmail.com (R. Gharsalli).

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafrearsci.2020.103997
Received 1 December 2019; Received in revised form 25 August 2020; Accepted 26 August 2020
Available online 28 August 2020
1464-343X/© 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 1. Location Map of the Chotts basin, Southern Tunisia: (A) Major sedimentary basins and tectonic elements of North Africa (Badalini et al., 2002); (B) Structural
setting of the Chotts basin in the Tunisian Saharan platform domain showing the main surface and subsurface tectonic features; (C) Location of petroleum wells, well
chronostratigraphic correlation section (W⋅C⋅S) and seismic cross section (S⋅C⋅S).

as a transition zone between the northern folded Atlassic domain and the
southern stable Saharan platform, and have linked the hydrocarbon
potential of the region directly to structural entrapments. Despite these
efforts, The hydrocarbon discovery rate (yield per exploratory well) in
the Chotts basin still very low compared to others adjacent provinces in
southern Tunisia and in Algeria (Ghadames/Berkine basin, Oued Mya
basin, …). Moreover, it appears that the large-scale complexities of the
basin are not only structural but also stratigraphic, since deposition was
controlled by the interactions of several main eustatic, paleoclimatic
(glaciation) and tectonic factors.
This work studies the subsurface Lower Palaeozoic series of the
Chotts basin (Fig. 2), especially the Cambro-Ordovician siliciclastic
reservoirs, and it’s based on the compilation of several analysis tools,
namely sequence stratigraphy, wireline logging and seismic reflection.
Building a sequence stratigraphic model backed by available well and
seismic data seems necessary to identify and predict reservoirs trends in
this area. On well logs, sequence stratigraphic analysis of the Cambro-
Ordovician siliciclastic deposits using sequence stratigraphic surfaces,
instead of formation tops, revealed in detail their parasequence stacking
patterns which allowed us to locate both proven and potential reser­
voirs. Seismostratigraphic analysis of subsurface Lower Palaeozoic de­
posits, based on seismic-stratigraphic concepts (Vail et al., 1977; Van
Wagoner et al., 1988; Posamentier and Allen, 1999), highlights several
sequence organizations at different scales. Seismic to wells tie and high
resolution well chronostratigraphic correlations of the
Cambro-Ordovician parasequences and associated reservoirs had pro­
vided a general overview on their paleogeographic distribution and had
allowed also the perception of their continuity, thickness and facies

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R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 2. Generalized Paleozoic lithostratigraphy and tectonic events of the Chotts basin and Eastern Algeria (compiled from ETAP, 1990; SONATRACH, 2004).

change throughout the study area.
2. Geological setting
The general geological evolution of the Chotts Basin, as part of the
North African Margin, is complex and polyphasic: The structural history
of this region could be subdivided on two main phases:
2.1. Pre-Hercynian phase
The earliest tectonic event identified in the area is attributed to the
Pan-African Orogeny. A Precambrian East-West trending regional
compression related to the collision of the western African stable craton
and the active margin of the eastern African craton (Boudjema, 1987;
Van de Weerd and Ware, 1994). The assembled Saharan craton becomes
part of the north-western passive margin of the Gondwana Supercon­
tinent (Boote et al., 1998; Badalini et al., 2002; Hallett, 2002).
Cambrian extensional movement have started by reactivation of Pan-
African fault systems and installation of the “Early Ghadames basin”
throughout the Saharan craton (Caby et al., 1981; Lüning et al., 2000;
Badalini et al., 2002; Aissaoui et al., 2016). This intra-cratonic sag basin
covering large parts of southern Tunisia, south-eastern Algeria and
south-western Libya and extending southward to the Hoggar massif
composed essentially of Precambrian igneous and metamorphic rocks
(Fig. 1) (Boudjema, 1987; Echikh, 1998; Badalini et al., 2002; Gabtni
et al., 2006, 2012; Craig et al., 2008). Cambrian fluvial quartzitic
sandstones, sourced from the Hoggar massif in the south, have pro­
graded for hundreds of kilometres to reach northern depositional areas
(Boudjema, 1987; Crossley and Mcdougall, 1998; Djarnia and Fekerine,
1998; Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998; Klett, 2000). From either sides of the
TTPB structural high, angular unconformities and conglomeratic dis­
continuities have been reported in subsurface within the
Precambrian-Cambrian contact (The Pan-African unconformity)
(Boudjema, 1987; El Euchi et al., 2003; kharbechi, 2003; Aissaoui et al.,
2016). In the Chotts basin, Cambrian deposits have been encountered
only in subsurface at many petroleum wells drilled in the area (P2, P7
and P10 wells) and they are subdivided in four Cambrian Zones (R3, R2,
Ra and Ri), constituted essentially by massive quartzitic sandstones with
rare shaly and silty intercalations (Lizotte, 1981; Whitley, 1998) (Fig. 2).
The Infra-Cambrian NW-SE extensional event recognized across the
subsiding “Early Ghadames basin” was followed by local transpressional
and transtentional reactivation of fault systems inherited from the
Pan-African Orogeny (Badalini et al., 2002). In southern Algeria, much
part of the Upper Cambrian appear to be missing under a Cambrian –
Ordovician erosive contact (Legrand, 1985a, 1985b; Crossley and
Mcdougall, 1998). Locally in the Chotts basin, at many seismic sections
acquired close to the TTPB uplift, an angular unconformity could be
detected within the Cambrian – Ordovician contact. Faunal evidence of

3
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir
the onset of a transgressive period by Late Cambrian-Early Ordovician
times has been reported in Southern Algeria (Legrand, 1985a, 1985b;
Crossley and Mcdougall, 1998). In Tunisia, along the northern part of
the TTPB structural high, many wells (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, …) revealed an
incomplete Ordovician sequence, where part of Middle Ordovician
(Ouargla and Oued Saret Formations) and Late Ordovician (Micro-­
conglomeratic Shales and Dalle de M’kratta Formations) are missing
(Fig. 2). From base to top, the Early Ordovician is represented by
transgressive deposits of the Alternances Zone Formation, constituted
essentially by bioturbated fine-grained sandstones and silty shales, and
the black silty and glauconitic marine shale of El Gassi Formation. High
bioturbated fine to medium-grained shallow marine (shoreface) clastic
sediments of El Atchane shaly glauconitic sandstones and Hamra
quartzose sandstones are directly covered by transgressive Middle
Ordovician marine shales of the Azel Formation (Fig. 2) (Beuf et al.,
1971; Crossley and Mcdougall, 1998; Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998). The
Hamra quartzites are locally affected by the Arenigian unconformity. In
fact, in the eastern part of the Chotts basin, these quartzites could be
partially or completely removed by the Arenigian erosional event.
During the Lower Palaeozoic, glacial and periglacial conditions were
abundant in the North African “Early Ghadames basin”, located close to
the South Pole (Boudjema, 1987; Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998; Echikh,
1998; Hallett, 2002; El Euchi et al., 2003; kharbechi, 2003; Dardour
et al., 2004; Ghienne et al., 2007; Haq and Schutter, 2008; Le Heron and
Craig, 2008; Soua, 2013; Aissaoui et al., 2016). By Late Ordovician,
East-West compressive tectonic event, coupled to drastic climatic con­
ditions, caused uplift and excessive erosion (El Euchi et al., 2003). In
subsurface, across the Chotts basin, Early and Middle Ordovician units
were truncated by the Taconic unconformity and appear to be directly
overlain by transgressive Late Silurian – Early Devonian shales (Hot
Shale and Fegaguira Shale). These shales were deposited during an
extensional tectonic phase occurred during the Silurian age and was
marked by a widespread postglacial marine transgression over much of
North Africa and Arabia (Boudjema, 1987; Cunningham, 1988; Ghe­
nima, 1993; Echikh, 1998; Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998; Lüning et al.,
2000; Badalini et al., 2002; Hallett, 2002; El Euchi et al., 2003; khar­
bechi, 2003; Underdown and Redfern, 2008; Rezouga et al., 2012; Soua,
2014; Belhaj et al., 2015; Aissaoui et al., 2016).
In the Chotts area, the role of the End Silurian - Early Devonian East-
West compressive Caledonian phase is very discrete and it’s only
detectable southern of the TTPB uplift at the Acacus –Tadrart erosive
contact (kharbechi, 2003).
Devonian, Carboniferous, Permian and part of the Silurian deposits
are missing in the Chotts basin. We assume that most part of the
Palaeozoic unit was removed during the Hercynian Orogeny (Fig. 2).
The Hercynian tectonic event was governed by intraplate deformations
associated to the collision of the northern passive margin of Gondwana
with Laurasia, during the Carboniferous – Permian period, to form the
Pangaea Supercontinent (Guiraud et al., 1987; Boote et al., 1998;
Echikh, 1998; Acheche et al., 2001; Badalini et al., 2002; Hallett, 2002).
The first regional deformation occurred during the Early Carboniferous
and corresponding to the Early Hercynian NE-SW compressive phase
have caused uplift, partial erosion and thickness variation of Carbonif­
erous deposits over the North African platform (Boudjema, 1987;
Echikh, 1998; Acheche et al., 2001; Hallett, 2002; El Euchi et al., 2003;
kharbechi, 2003; Aissaoui et al., 2016). A Late Hercynian compression
phase (N90 to N120) occurred during the Late Carboniferous (West­
phalian) - Early Permian times have caused huge uplift and intense
erosional truncation of the underling deformed deposits. The maximum
of erosion was documented on top of the TTPB structural high where
Triassic volcanics overly directly Cambrian deposits (Fig. 2). This
East-West trending regional structure (TTPB) was developed during the
Late Hercynian phase (Boote et al., 1998; Badalini et al., 2002; El Euchi
et al., 2003; kharbechi, 2003; Gabtni et al., 2012).
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Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997
2.2. Post-Hercynian phase
In the Chotts area, Pre-Hercynian deformed deposits were uncon­
formably buried under Triassic volcanics, clastic continental deposits
(Triassic TAGI Sandstones) and/or thick sequence of evaporates and
Carbonates. Syn-rift deposition was coupled with significant Triassic –
Liassic extensional movements linked to the post-Hercynian break-up of
Pangaea, rifting of the Neotethys Sea and opening of the Central Atlantic
Ocean between Gondwana and Laurasia (Boudjema, 1987; Guiraud
et al., 1987; Ziegler, 1988; Stampfli, 1996; Boote et al., 1998; Guiraud,
1998; Badalini et al., 2002; Hallett, 2002; Soussi, 2002; Sekatni et al.,
2008; Underdown and Redfern, 2008; Saïd et al., 2011).
Continuous regional subsidence and deposition of thick sequence of
salt, anhydrate and carbonates, during the Late Triassic - Early Creta­
ceous period led to the installation of a Mesozoic “extensional sag basin”
over the Paleozoic “Early Ghadames basin” (Van de Weerd and Ware,
1994; Echikh, 1998; Acheche et al., 2001; Badalini et al., 2002).
By Early Cretaceous (Aptian), regional tectonics produced a more
compressional regime resulting in the reactivation of preexisting fault
trends and Late Hercynian structures (Echikh, 1998; Acheche et al.,
2001). In the Chotts area, the Austrian compressive event is represented
by the regional Austrian unconformity separating the truncated Early
Cretaceous clastics (Neocomian – Barremian) from the transgressive
Aptian – Albian dolomite and claystone (Acheche et al., 2001; Lazzez
et al., 2008). The Austrian event was followed by a relatively quiescent
compressive phase, the Pyrenean Orogeny, with much localized effects
in southern Tunisia (Guiraud and Bosworth, 1997; Guiraud et al., 2005).
By Late Eocene, the compressive Atlassic Orogenic event, related to
the convergence movement between Africa and Europe, caused a total
inversion of the Mesozoic passive margin of North Africa, development
of the Atlas fold belt and onset of a general foreland compression over
the Chotts area (Boudjema, 1987; Echikh, 1998; Acheche et al., 2001;
Carr, 2002; Badalini et al., 2002; Gharbi et al., 2015; Khomsi et al.,
2016). The Neogene Alpine phase (Serravalian-Tortonian) represents
the principal shortening tectonic event in the southern Tunisian Atlas
(Saïd et al., 2011; Gharbi et al., 2014; El Amari et al., 2016). During this
compressive phase, the North Saharan Flexure, defined as a transition
zone between the northern folded Atlassic domain and the southern
stable Saharan platform, has played a role of barrier against the trans­
mission of the Alpine tectonic stresses to the South (Gabtni et al., 2005).
3. Materials and methods
Subsurface data used to perform this study were gathered from a
number of exploration petroleum wells (wireline logs, composite li­
thology logs, cutting and core samples description and analysis reports,
…) and 2 D seismic sections acquired across the Chotts basin (Fig. 1).
Well log curves integrated in this study include essentially Sonic (DT)
and Gamma Ray (GR) logs. The available data were integrated into a
coherent seismic project using SMT Kingdom Software. Well to seismic
ties constitute an essential task in seismic interpretation as it relates
subsurface data obtained from different sources. Hence, well logs
measured in depth and seismic data measured in time had required a
time-depth relationship computed using the available DT logs. The high
vertical resolution of the GR log (up to 30 cm) makes it very useful at
delineating lithofacies successions for sequence stratigraphic analysis
and also at defining thin beds for fine scale correlations.
The method adopted in this work is based on 3 main tasks: (1) high
resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis (parasequence scale) on GR
well logs and conception of a sequence stratigraphic model, (2) seismic
sequence analysis on seismic sections and (3) fine scale correlation of
main reservoirs using sequence stratigraphic surfaces instead of forma­
tion tops (Vail et al., 1977; Van Wagoner et al., 1988; Posamentier and
Allen, 1999).
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir
3.1. High resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis on well logs
On GR well logs, sequence stratigraphy is mainly based on delinea­
tion of lithofacies and analysis of their vertical successions, identifica­
tion of parasequences and assessment of their stacking patterns and
recognition of sequence stratigraphic surfaces bounding the systems
tracts within each depositional sequence (Van Wagoner et al., 1988).
3.1.1. Delineation of lithofacies and identification of the general
paleogeographic setting
The GR log constitutes an extremely useful tool for discrimination of
different lithologies and determination of shale content (Vsh). The sha­
liness is indicative of lithofacies and grain size. Identification of elec­
trofacies from GR log patterns (thickening or thinning upwards and
coarsening or fining upwards) allowing thus to identify the general
paleogeographic setting of the study area (fluvial, coastal, outer shelf or
basinal). The determination of the general paleogeographic setting
constitutes a crucial step to understand the stratigraphic response
(progradation, aggradation or retrogradation) to variations in relative
sea-level change and accommodation (Van Wagoner et al., 1988; Pos­
amentier and Allen, 1999).
For each well, a detailed Composite Lithology Log was performed
using a “Vsh curve” (shale volume curve) automatically deduced from
the existing GR log, then calibrated and depth matched via the available
cutting and core samples. The shale volume is calculated using the
following formula:
Vsh = (GRlog - GRmin) / (GRmax - GRmin)
Where:
Vsh = the shale volume of the rock or the shaliness
GRlog = the gamma ray reading at the depth of interest
GRmin = the minimum gamma ray reading through a clean sandstone or car­
bonate formation
GRmax = the maximum gamma ray reading through a shale or clay formation
3.1.2. Parasequence stacking patterns and parasequence set
Analysis of the GR log values and trends, coupled with the vertical
Fig. 3. Exxon Depositional Sequence “SLUG” model (modified from Van Wagoner et al., 1988; Lin et al., 2017), showing: Sequence stratigraphic surfaces (Sequence
Boundary (SB), Transgressive Surface (TS) and Maximum Flooding Surface (MFS)) and Systems tracts (Lowstand Systems Tract (LST), Transgressive Systems Tract
(TST) and Highstand Systems Tract (HST)).
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Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997
succession of lithofacies as displayed by the generated Composite Li­
thology Log, had allowed identification of several parasequences. Ac­
cording to Van Wagoner et al. (1988), a parasequence is a relatively
conformable succession of generally related beds bounded by
marine-flooding surfaces and their correlative surfaces, sharply sepa­
rates deeper-water rocks from underlying shallower-water rocks.
Assessment of the parasequence stacking trend (thickening or thin­
ning upwards and coarsening or fining upwards) permits to determine
the parasequence set that could be progradational, retrogradational or
aggradational. A parasequence set is a succession of genetically related
parasequences forming a distinctive stacking pattern bounded by major
marine-flooding surfaces and their correlative surfaces (Van Wagoner
et al., 1988).
3.1.3. Sequence stratigraphic surfaces and systems tracts
Identification of the sequence stratigraphic surfaces let to determine
Fig. 4. Seismic stratigraphic reflection terminations within an idealized seismic
sequence (redrawn from Vail et al., 1977; Miall, 2010): (1) Onlap is a
base-discordant relation in which initially horizontal strata terminate progres­
sively against an initially inclined surface, or in which initially inclined strata
terminate progressively updip against a surface of greater initial inclination.
Proximal onlap is onlap in the direction of the source of clastic supply. Distal
onlap is onlap in the direction away from the source of clastic supply. (2)
Downlap is a base-discordant relation in which initially inclined strata termi­
nate downdip against an initially horizontal or inclined surface. Distal down­
lap is downlap in the direction away from the source of clastic supply. (3)
Toplap is a top-discordant relation in which termination of strata against an
overlying unconformity (the upper Sequence Boundary) is interpreted as a
result of non deposition and only minor erosion. (4) Truncation is a
top-discordant relation in which termination of strata or seismic reflections is
interpreted as strata along an overlying unconformity (the upper Sequence
Boundary) due to post-depositional erosional or structural effects
(Mitchum, 1977).
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 5. Depositional sequence stratigraphy on petroleum well logs (P2 reference well) in the Chotts basin (Southern Tunisia) showing five second - order depositional
sequences (DS21- DS25), systems tracts and sequence stratigraphic surfaces.

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R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

the systems tracts and therefore the depositional stratigraphic sequence
(Fig. 3):
The Sequence Boundary (SB) is recognized as an unconformity in
proximal position or its correlative conformity in distal position. This
key surface corresponds to the most regressive stratigraphic architec­
ture, commonly marked by significant erosional truncation and a
basinward shift of facies (Vail et al., 1977; Van Wagoner et al., 1988;
Posamentier and Allen, 1999). On GR well logs, Sequence Boundaries
are generally placed at the base of the thickest and coarsest sandy level,
with very low GR values, and corresponds to the
progradational-aggradational parasequence sets of the Lowstand Sys­
tems Tract (LST).
The Transgressive Surface (TS) corresponds to the first significant
flooding surface commonly lie between the progradational-
aggradational parasequence sets of the LST below and the retrograda­
tional parasequence sets of the Transgressive Systems Tract (TST) above
(Vail et al., 1977; Van Wagoner et al., 1988; Posamentier et al., 1988;
Posamentier and Allen, 1999). On GR well logs, the TS coincides
generally with the first abrupt increase of the GR values indicating a sea
level-rise and marking a change from coarsening-upward to
fining-upward successions. A Transgressive Surface is usually repre­
sented by a Transgressive Ravinement Surface (TRS) in shallow marine
environments and also in case of rapid sea level-rise (Miller et al., 2018).
The Maximum Flooding Surface (MFS) corresponds to the most
transgressive stratigraphic architecture commonly lie between retro­
gradational parasequence sets of the TST below and aggradational-
progradational parasequence sets of the Highstand Systems Tract
(HST) above (Vail, 1987; Van Wagoner et al., 1988; Posamentier et al.,
1988). On GR well logs, the MFS coincides with a high GR peak indi­
cating a change from fining-upward to coarsening-upward successions.
This key surface is generally picked within the thickest mudstone level
and is typically associated to a condensed section (in the basinward
direction) commonly marked by faunal abundance, high glauconite
concentration and/or enrichment in organic matter (Posamentier et
Allen, 1999).
3.2. Seismic sequence analysis
On seismic data, calibration of seismic sections with closest wells and
picking of key seismic horizons and reflectors allow accessing the
geometrical configurations of the seismic reflectors (onlap, downlap,
toplap, erosional truncation) and thus identifying the sequence strati­
graphic surfaces (Fig. 4). Sequence Boundaries are recognized from a
downward shift in proximal or coastal onlap (Van Wagoner et al., 1988).
Bounding surfaces could be also defined by distal downlap, erosional
truncation and toplap (Mitchum et al., 1977). However, the MFS is
typically a major downlap surface associated with changes from retro­
gradational to aggradational-progradational parasequence stacking
patterns (Miller et al., 2018). The Transgressive surface is generally
undistinguished in seismic data. Seismic to well ties of sequence strati­
graphic surfaces with well log signatures let to determine the systems
tracts and therefore the seismic stratigraphic sequence.
3.3. Correlation of main reservoirs
Wells chronostratigraphic correlations and well to seismic ties let to
perceive the reservoir continuity, thickness and quality (facies changes)
throughout the study area. Prediction of spatial distribution and trend
directions of proven and potential reservoirs might be possible depends
on seismic and wells data quality and coverage ratio.
4. Results
4.1. Sequence stratigraphy
Application of sequence-stratigraphic concepts (Vail et al., 1977; Van
Wagoner et al., 1988; Posamentier et al., 1988; Posamentier and Allen,
1999) on the interpretation of seismic and wireline logging measure­
ments provides more effective method for chronostratigraphic correla­
tion of sandy levels, likely to constitute reservoirs, using sequence
stratigraphic surfaces (SB, TS, MFS) instead of formation tops (Michel­
sen and Danielsen, 1996).

Fig. 6. High Resolution sequence stratigraphy of the Depositional Sequence (DS23) on petroleum well logs (P2 reference well) in the Chotts Basin showing para­
sequences, parasequence sets and systems tracts.

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R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 7. Wells chronostratigraphic correlation section (W⋅C⋅S-1) of second – order depositional sequences (DS21- DS25), systems tracts and associated siliciclastic
reservoirs showing lateral distribution (truncation, pinch-out) and facies change (shaling out) of the Palaeozoic deposits throughout the Chotts basin.

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R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 8. Seismic sequence stratigraphy of subsurface Palaeozoic deposits within the Chotts basin (Southern Tunisia). The SW-NE Seismic Cross Section (SCS-1)
displays a maximum of five second - order seismic sequences (SS21– SS25) and associated systems tracts separated by sequence stratigraphic surfaces.

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R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 9. Seismic sequence stratigraphy of subsurface Palaeozoic deposits across the Chotts basin (Southern Tunisia). The NW-SE Seismic Cross Section (SCS-2)
showing a significant reduction in thickness and number of the highlighted seismic sequences in the vicinity of the TTPB structural high (P7 and P10 wells).

On GR well logs, the sequence stratigraphic analysis of the entire
Lower Palaeozoic section, starting from Middle Cambrian to Late Silu­
rian – Early Devonian, highlights a maximum of 5 s-order depositional
sequences (DS21-DS25) separated by regional stratigraphic discontinu­
ities (Figs. 5–7). The P2 reference well, drilled in the western part of the
Chotts basin, penetrates the thickest Cambro-Ordovician section in the
area (about 600 m). These sediments were deposited during the Middle
Cambrian – Middle Ordovician interval times and could be subdivided
into 4 s-order depositional sequences (DS21-DS24). The Late Silurian –
Early Devonian shaly layers constitute the topmost fifth second-order
depositional sequence (DS25).
The calibration of representative composite seismic cross section to
existing well data enabled to pick several key seismic horizons, corre­
sponding generally to regional stratigraphic discontinuities (Pan-
African, Top Cambrian, Taconic, Late Hercynian, …). In the eastern part
of the basin, further local sedimentary discontinuities have been
detected (Arenigian, Early Hercynian …). Seismic sequence analysis of
the Palaeozoic section, beneath the Late Hercynian unconformity, based
on the geometrical configurations of seismic reflectors and major
sequence stratigraphic surfaces (SB, MFS, TS), permits to identify a
maximum of 5 s-order seismic sequences (SS21– SS25) (Figs. 8–10).
Close to the TTPB structural high, at P7, P8 and P10 wells, where
excessive erosion predominant, number of these sequences decreases
considerably. Generally, most of the missing sequences were removed
by the Late Hercynian unconformity linked to the main Hercynian
compression event occurred during the Late Carboniferous - Early
Permian times.
From base to top, the depositional sequences identified on well logs

10
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 10. Seismic sequence stratigraphy of subsurface Palaeozoic deposits in the eastern part of the Chotts basin. The SW-NE Seismic Cross Section (SCS-3) illustrates
the removing of the Hamra quartzite (Reservoir RSV-I) by the Arenigian unconformity (P1 and P20 wells). Lenticular structures and progradational downlaps
corresponding to fluvial channel deposits have been identified within the Cambrian section (Reservoir RSV-IV).

11
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir
and their equivalents on seismic sections show the following
characteristics:
4.1.1. DS21/SS21: Middle to Late Cambrian (acadian – potsdamian)
On well logs, this first depositional sequence (DS21) consists from
base to top of the R3, R2, Ra and Ri Zones encountered, totally or
partially, at P2, P7 & P10 wells and coincides with Middle to Late
Cambrian interval time (Acadian – Potsdamian) (Figs. 5 and 7–9). Based
on GR log trends and sparse information from cutting and core samples
revealed on well reports, the fluvial quartzitic coarse-grained and cross-
bedded sandstones of the R3 and R2 Zones (Boudjema, 1987; Fekirine
and Abdallah, 1998), represented by slightly upward decreasing low GR
values, are interpreted as lowstand systems tract deposits (LST21). At P7
well, this regressive unit is constituted essentially by stacked coarsening
upward and thickening upward progradational parasequences, depos­
ited in a deltaic environment on a sandy fluvial dominated shoreline
(Fig. 7) (Boudjema, 1987; Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998; Djarnia and
Fekerine, 1998; Klett, 2000; Legrand, 1985b).
The sequence boundary (SB21) of this first sequence correspond to
the Pan-African unconformity, detected only on seismic sections ac­
quired across the Chotts area (Figs. 8–10), but penetrated at many wells
drilled, further south, on the top of the TTPB structure (P26, 29 and 30
wells).
At P7 and P2 wells, upward increasing GR values through the lower
part of the Ra Zone, represented by fine-grained sandstones with
abundant clayey and silty interbeds, corresponds to transgressive tidal/
estuarine deposits. The stacked fining up and thinning up retrograda­
tional parasequences of this level constitutes a transgressive systems
tract (TST21). The transgressive surface (TS21) coincides with the first
abrupt increase of the GR values indicating a rapid sea level-rise (Figs. 5
and 7). The maximum flooding surface (MFS21) coincides with a GR
peak corresponding to a metric shaly level with high glauconite con­
centration. This key surface indicates a spectacular change in the
depositional environment and therefore in GR log trends from retro­
gradational fining up (TST) to progradational coarsening up sediments
(HST). Above the MFS21 and beneath the sequence boundary of the
subsequent sequence (SB22), the log pattern of the fluvial quartzitic Ri
Zone and the uppermost part of the Ra level show an upward decreasing
GR values corresponding to the highstand systems tract deposits
(HST21) constituted essentially by coarsening up and thickening up
progradational parasequences (Figs. 5 and 7).
On seismic sections, this first seismic sequence (SS21) is bounded, at
the base, by the Pan-African unconformity (SB21) and, at the top, by the
Top Cambrian - Base Ordovician key seismic horizon (SB22). The Pan-
African unconformity put in contact fluvial Cambrian sediments with
underlying tilted Precambrian granitic and eruptives basement (Boud­
jema, 1987; Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998; Klett, 2000; El Euchi et al.,
2003; kharbechi, 2003) (Figs. 8–10). This basal sequence boundary
(SB21) is recognized by seismic progradational downlap and onlap ter­
minations. At the top of the sequence, the SB22 is detected by toplap and
truncation features. The MFS21 coincides with an internal downlap
surface separating the highstand systems tract (HST21) from the un­
derlying lowstand and transgressive systems tracts (LST21 and TST21).
Seismic to well log tie helped to distinguish the transgressive deposits of
the TST21, which are dominated by retrogradational onlaps, from the
regressive progradational deposits of the LST21 (Figs. 8–10).
4.1.2. DS22/SS22: Early Ordovician (lower tremadocian)
This second depositional sequence (DS22) corresponds to the tidal/
estuarine fine-grained sandstones, siltstones and shale interbeds of the
Ordovician Alternances Zone and the marine shale of El Gassi Forma­
tion. At P2 well logs (Fig. 5), upward increasing GR values through the
Ordovician Alternances and the lower part of the El Gassi Shale is
interpreted as a transgressive systems tract (TST22). These transgressive
deposits, marked by high GR values, appear to become shalier upward
until the maximum flooding surface (MFS22). This key
12
Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997
chronostratigraphic marker is represented by a metric shaly level with
elevated glauconite concentration and high GR values.
The sequence boundary (SB22) of this sequence coincides with a
transgressive ravinement surface (TRS22) corresponding to the first
abrupt increase of the GR records and indicating a brisk sea level-rise
causing probably the erosion of the entire lowstand deposits (LST22)
(Figs. 5 and 7).
This basal transgressive unit is followed by thick fine-grained sand­
stones, siltstones and shale interbeds of the upper part of El Gassi For­
mation corresponding to the HST22. Situated between the MFS22 and
the sequence boundary (SB23) of the subsequent sequence (DS23), this
progradational unit show upward progressive enrichment in coarsening
deposits, materialised by upward slightly decreasing GR records (Figs. 5
and 7).
On seismic sections, the seismic sequence (SS22) is delimited by the
Top Cambrian - Base Ordovician key seismic horizon (SB22) at the base
and locally, at the top, by the erosional ravinement base of the El
Atchane Formation (SB23), the Taconic unconformity or the Late Her­
cynian unconformity depends on the intensity of erosion (Figs. 8–10).
The MFS22 corresponds to an internal downlap surface separating the
TST22 from the HST22. The transgressive deposits of the TST22 are
dominated by retrogradational onlaps. On the other hand, the regressive
deposits of the HST22 are recognized by their frequent progradational
downlaps.
4.1.3. DS23/SS23: Early Ordovician (upper tremadocian – arenigian)
On well logs, high resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis of the
third depositional sequence (DS23), constituted by El Atchane and
Hamra Formations, highlights a vertical succession of parasequences.
Study of the stacking trend allow to determine parasequences sets that
could be progradational, aggradational or retrogradational (Figs. 5–7).
At P2 key well, identification of the sequence stratigraphic surfaces
permits to determine systems tracts. The sequence boundary (SB23) is
linked to an erosional ravinement surface separating the clayey sedi­
ments of El Gassi Formation from the sandy deposits of El Atchane one.
The transgressive surface (TS23) marks the passage from an aggrada­
tional facies with constant low GR values below the TS23 to a retro­
gradational unit with upward progressive increasing GR measurements
above this key surface. The maximum flooding surface (MFS23), placed
within the uppermost shaly layers of El Atchane Formation, corresponds
to a GR peak separating fining up and shaly transgressive deposits from
coarsening up and sandy regressive deposits (Fig. 6).
The coarse-grained sandstones with rare siltstone and shale interbeds
of the lower part of the El Atchane Formation, bounded by the SB23 and
TS23 surfaces, represent the LST23 of this depositional sequence (DS23).
This regressive unit show an upward significant decreasing of the GR
values corresponding to a progradational parasequence set constituted
by stacked coarsening and thickening upward parasequences. This basal
interval is followed by an aggradational parasequence set marked by a
constant low GR pattern (Fig. 6).
In the eastern part of the basin, we perceive the absence of the middle
to coarse-grained progradational lowstand deposits of the LST23 in
many wells (P1 and P20) (Fig. 7). In fact, the deepening of the deposi­
tional environment to the North and North-East during the Early
Ordovician times might have obstructed the development of these
lowstand deposits by prevalence of clayey sediments in the basinward
direction.
The shaly interval of the upper part of the El Atchane Formation,
sandwiched between the TS23 and the MFS23 and showing an upward
significant increase of the GR trend, is interpreted as a TST23. This
transgressive unit is represented by a retrogradational parasequence set
constituted entirely by stacked fining and thinning upward para­
sequences (Fig. 6).
At the top of the DS23, a constant low GR pattern corresponding to an
aggradational parasequence set, formed by metric fine grained sandy
bars and thin shaly intercalations, appears just above the MFS23. These
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

Fig. 11. High resolution wells chronostratigraphic correlation section (W⋅C⋅S-2) of the depositional sequence (DS23), systems tracts, parasequences and associated
siliciclastic reservoirs (RSV-I and RSV-II) showing their lateral distribution and facies change in the central part of the Chotts basin. Structural traps are predominant
in the central part of the basin (P2, P15, P14 structures). Structural-stratigraphic combination traps appear essentially in the southern flank of the basin, close to the
TTPB uplift, where truncated Hamra quartzite reservoir (RSV-I), covered by efficient top seal (Triassic Volcanics), overlay old structural traps (P5 and P9 structures).
Stratigraphic entrapments of hydrocarbons on truncated Ordovician sandy levels and pinchouts might be possible in the landward direction to the South and South-
West across the TTPB structural high.

aggradational sediments are overlaying by thick massive sandy levels,
with funnel-shaped log patterns, displaying upward decreasing GR
values indicating progressive predominance of coarsening deposits. The
latter corresponds to a progradational parasequence set constituted by
stacked coarsening and thickening upward Parasequences. This regres­
sive unit is interpreted as a highstand systems tract (HST23) (Fig. 6).
On seismic sections (Figs. 8–10), the seismic sequence (SS23) is
bounded at the base by the El Atchane – El Ghassi seismic marker (SB23)
and, locally at the top, by the Arenigian unconformity (SB24), the
Taconic unconformity (SB25) and/or the Late Hercynian unconformity
depends on the intensity of erosion (Fig. 9). Systems tracts (LST23,
TST23 and HST23) of the SS23 are indistinguishable on seismic sections
and this because they are below seismic resolution.
4.1.4. DS24/SS24: Middle Ordovician (llanvirnian - llandeilian)
In the Chotts basin, this depositional sequence (DS24) is bounded by
the Arenigian unconformity (SB24) at the base and the Taconic uncon­
formity (SB25) at the top and it’s constituted essentially by the Middle
Ordovician marine Azel Shale (Figs. 5–7). On well logs (P1, P2, P14, P15
& P20), the basal Sequence Boundary (SB24) is marked by an abrupt
increase of the GR values associated to a significant and brisk change in
the depositional environment from a shallow water (shoreface sand­
stones of Hamra Formation) to a relatively deep water environments
(marine shales of Azel Formation). Through the clayey Azel Formation,
the recorded high GR values are relatively regular and are interpreted as
a transgressive systems tract (TST24).
The Ouargla and the Oued Saret sandstones penetrated at many wells
drilled in Eastern Algeria correspond respectively to the lowstand and

13
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir
highstand deposits of the DS24. In the Chotts area, we assume erosion of
the coarse-grained deposits of the Ouargla sandstones (LST24) by a
transgressive ravinement surface (TRS24), juxtaposed to the SB24, and
this is probably due to the rapid sea-level rise during the deposition of
the retrogradational marine black shale of the Azel Formation (TST24)
(Fig. 7). In Eastern Algeria, these transgressive deposits passing up into
coarsening and thickening upward sandstones, with shale interbeds,
stacked on progradational parasequences of the Oued Saret highstand
deposits (HST24) (Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998). In the study area, the
Oued Saret sandstones were eroded by the Taconic unconformity linked
to the Late Ordovician glacial event (Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998).
The seismic sequence (SS24) is practically invisible on seismic sec­
tions and still below the seismic resolution. Only the upper sequence
boundary represented by the Taconic unconformity (SB25) is detectable
(Figs. 8–10).
4.1.5. DS25/SS25: Late Silurian - Early Devonian
The depositional sequence (DS25) corresponds to the transgressive
Hot Shale and Fegaguira Shales deposited during the Silurian trans­
gressive event (Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998) (Fig. 5). It’s bounded, at
the base, by the Taconic unconformity (SB25) and at the top by the Early
or Late Hercynian unconformities (Fig. 7). On P2 well log, we note an
upward abrupt increasing GR values through the Late Silurian Hot Shale
section exceeding generally 150 API (Cunningham, 1988). This marine
graptolitic black shale source rock (Cunningham, 1988; Soua, 2014;
Belhaj et al., 2015; Aissaoui et al., 2016) is followed by a thick clayey
interval with constant log pattern and relatively high GR corresponding
to the Fegaguira Formation. These marine shale deposits cover uncon­
formably the Middle Ordovician Azel shales of the DS24 and they are
interpreted as a transgressive systems tract (TST25). These retrograda­
tional deposits were preserved within Palaeozoic intra-cratonic de­
pressions across much of the North African and Arabian platforms
(Boote et al., 1998; Lüning et al., 2000; Soua, 2014).
The Late Ordovician glacial period was followed by a widespread
postglacial marine transgression with brisk sea-level rise leading to a
rapid increase in water depth, which could obstruct the development of
the lowstand deposits (LST25). Otherwise, this rapid sea-level rise
movement could act also as an erosional ravinement surface causing the
wearing away of the deposited lowstand deposits. The missing highstand
deposits (HST25) were probably eroded, initially by the Caledonian
unconformity and later by the subsequent Hercynian ones.
On seismic sections, the underlying sequence boundary of the SS25
coincides with the Taconic Unconformity (SB25). The overlying
sequence boundary corresponds to the Early or the Late Hercynian
Unconformities, respectively in the eastern or the western part of the
Chotts basin (Figs. 8–10). As mentioned above, the SS25 is constituted
essentially by transgressive deposits of the TST25. This sequence is
clearly dominated by retrogradational onlaps towards the South and
Southwest and shows a significant thickening in the basinward direction
to the North and North-East.
In the Chotts area, the Late Ordovician – Early Silurian deposits
(conglomeratic and sandy lowstand deposits, transgressive “Micro-
conglomeratic shales” and “Dalle de M’Kratta” highstand deposits) are
completely eroded (Fig. 2). In eastern Algeria, these missing deposits
represent an entire second order depositional sequence (Fekirine and
Abdallah, 1998). Major Parts of this missing depositional sequence were
probably eroded during the combined tectonic, climatic and eustatic
Taconic event. In fact, during this drastic geological event,
glacio-eustatic regression was coupled to compression and uplift
movements (Beuf et al., 1971; Fabre, 1976; Boudjema, 1987; Boote
et al., 1998; Echikh, 1998; Fekirine and Abdallah, 1998; Hallett, 2002;
El Euchi et al., 2003; kharbechi, 2003; Ghienne et al., 2007; Le Heron
and Craig, 2008; Soua, 2013).
14
Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997
4.2. Cambro-Ordovician siliciclastic reservoir distribution over the Chotts
basin
4.2.1. Identification of the Cambro-Ordovician siliciclastic reservoirs
Generally, wireline logging records could display a very high vertical
resolution of few centimetres. Application of this tool is crucial at
defining thin beds for high resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis
and chronostratigraphic correlation. On well logs (P2, P5, P7, P9, P14
and P15 wells), high resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis of the
DS23 and DS21 depositional sequences, represented respectively by the
Ordovician El Atchane and Hamra Formations and the Cambrian R3, R2,
Ra and Ri Zones, highlights a vertical succession of several para­
sequences (Figs. 7 and 11). Study of the stacking trend allows deter­
mining the parasequence sets that could be progradational,
aggradational or retrogradational. Identification of the sequence strati­
graphic surfaces (SB, TS, MFS) lead to identify the systems tracts:
✓ At P2 reference well, stacked coarsening up and thickening up par­
asequences, situated at the base of the lowstand systems tract
(LST23) and at the top of the highstand systems tract (HST23) of the
DS23, constitute progradational parasequence sets. Upward
decreasing GR values indicate progressive predominance of coars­
ening deposits. This is was supported by the sparse information from
cutting and core samples indicating the presence of massive clean
middle to coarse grained sandy levels at the base of El Atchane and at
the top of Hamra Formations.
Vertically, through each well log on the correlation cross section
(Fig. 11), we perceive two regressive progradational sandy units, the
Lower Atchane sandstone and the Upper Hamra quartzite, separated by
an aggradational-retrogradational-aggradational clayey unit belonging
to Upper El Atchane and Lower Hamra Formations. Thus, these two
progradational sandy levels encountered through the Ordovician section
represent the main hydrocarbon proven reservoirs across the Chotts
basin:
(1) The Upper Hamra quartzite (RSV-I) constitutes the main proven
reservoir in the area and it’s interpreted as the progradational
part of the HST23.
(2) The Lower El Atchane sandstones (RSV-II), usually discarded by
petroleum operators, show acceptable reservoir characteristics
and it’s considered as the progradational part of the LST23.
✓ At P7 and P2 wells, stacked coarsening up and thickening up
progradational parasequences located at the base of the LST21
and at the top of the HST21, part of the DS21, could constitute
potential Cambrian reservoirs in the Chotts basin (Fig. 7).
Moreover, oil and gas shows have been recorded at the
Cambrian section in many wells drilled in the area (P7 and P2
wells). In the giant Hassi Messaoud oil field, located in south-
eastern Algeria, the Cambrian sandstones represent the main
proven hydrocarbon reservoir:
(3) The fluvial quartzite of the Ri Zone (RSV-III) corresponds to the
progradational part of the HST21.
(4) The fluvial quartzitic middle to coarse-grained and cross-bedded
sandstones of the R3 Zone and the lower part of the R2 Zone
(RSV-V) represent the progradational part of the LST21.
4.2.2. Characterisation of the Cambro-Ordovician siliciclastic reservoirs in
the Chotts basin
High resolution sequence stratigraphic correlation of parasequences
and associated sandy levels, likely to constitute hydrocarbon reservoirs,
is based on regional chronostratigraphic surfaces instead of formation
tops. Laterally, throughout the performed well chronostratigraphic
correlation sections (Figs. 7 and 11), the depositional sequence DS23
displays a very good continuity for several kilometres and shows an
irregular thickness ranging from 40 to 120 m, with a clear thickening in
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997

the basinward direction to the North and North-East. In the south-
western part of the basin (P9 and P5 wells), close to the TTPB uplift,
the upper part of the DS23 and essentially the HST23 is partially removed
by the Taconic unconformity and/or the Late Hercynian one (Fig. 11).
However, in the south-eastern part of the basin (P1 and P20 wells), the
upper part of the DS23, represented by the entire El Atchane and part of
Hamra Formations, appears to be removed by the Arenigian unconfor­
mity (Fig. 7). At P1 and P20 wells, we perceive also a gradual shaling out
of the lower part of El Atchane Formation in the basinward direction
causing progressive disappearing of the progradational lowstand de­
posits (LST23) towards the North and North-East (Fig. 7). In the Chotts
basin, the significant variation in thickness, facies and also number of
parasequences within the DS23 appears to be controlled by syn- and
post-sedimentary tectonic activities during the Early Ordovician – Late
Carboniferous times.
The Cambrian section, represented by the depositional sequence
DS21, has been penetrated by only three exploration wells across the
Chotts basin (P2, P7 and P10). Through the chronostratigraphic corre­
lation of these key wells, the depositional sequence DS21 displays very
good continuity and irregular thickness, exceeding generally 200 m,
with a clear thinning in the southern flank of the basin close to the TTPB
structure (Fig. 7).

Fig. 12. Spatial distribution maps of proven and potential Cambro-Ordovician reservoirs throughout the Chotts basin: (A) The Upper Hamra quartzite reservoir
(RSV-I), (B) The Lower El Atchane sandstones reservoir (RSV-II), (C) The fluvial quartzite of the Ri Zone reservoir (RSV-III) and (D) The fluvial quartzite of the R3-R2
Zones reservoir (RSV-IV). In the central part of the basin, structural traps are predominant (P2, P14 and P15 wells). Towards the flanks and close to the TTPB uplift,
most of the productive structures are represented by structural-stratigraphic combined traps (P5 and P9 wells). Stratigraphic traps represented by truncated
sandstones and pinchouts might be possible in the landward direction to the South and South-West across the TTPB uplift.

15
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir
(1) The Upper Hamra quartzite reservoir (RSV-I), which constitutes
the progradational part of the HST23, is the most affected by the
Taconic and Hercynian erosional events. The erosion intensity
increase in the landward direction, toward the South and South-
West, inducing consequently a clear thinning of the principal
reservoir RSV-I (Fig. 11). In the eastern part of the basin, at P1
and P20 wells, the reservoir RSV-I appears to be completely
removed by another erosional event materialised by the Areni­
gian unconformity. Therefore, the reservoir RSV-I displays an
intermittent continuity and an irregular gross thickness ranging
from 0 to 60 m across the Chotts basin. This multilayer reservoir
consists of a succession of clean massive sandy levels (5–25 m)
separated by thin shaly and silty layers (Fig. 11). The consistent
sandy levels consist of middle to coarse-grained clean massive
sandstones, with generally poor petrophysical characteristics.
The average porosity is about 9.5% and the permeability is
ranging from 0.1 to 72 MD (Lizotte, 1982). Nevertheless, natural
fractures close to faulted areas could enhance considerably the
petrophysical characteristics of this tight sand reservoir.
(2) The Lower El Atchane sandstones reservoir (RSV-II), which rep­
resents the progradational part of the LST23, is usually intact and
rarely affected by known erosional events (Fig. 11). In the west­
ern part of the basin, the reservoir RSV-II displays a very good
continuity and a regular gross thickness ranging from 10 to 15 m.
On the other side, the progradational sandy levels of this reser­
voir show a progressive shaling out in the basinward direction
and may disappear completely in the eastern part of the basin (P1
and P20 wells) (Fig. 7). This monolayer reservoir consists of
medium-grained clean massive sandstones with rare silty and
shaly interbeds. Porosities and permeabilities ranged respectively
between 7.5 and 13.3% and 1 to 7 MD (Lizotte and Chebbi,
1982). But, we expect an enhancement of these petrophysical
characteristics on naturally fractured zones displaying high sec­
ondary porosity and permeability.
(3) The Ri Zone potential reservoir (RSV-III) is penetrated at P2, P7
and P10 wells targeting the Cambrian section in the Chotts basin.
The reservoir RSV-III corresponds to the progradational part of
the HST21 (DS21) and it displays a very good continuity and a
regular gross thickness, ranging from 18 to 26 m, for more than
70 km (Figs. 7 and 9). This monolayer reservoir consists of me­
dium and coarse-grained massive fluvial quartzite with rare shaly
and silty intercalations. These quartzitic tight sandstones show
generally poor petrophysical characteristics, with porosity values
are varying from 2 to 12%, while permeability is ranging from 0.1
to 1000 MD (Lizotte, 1981; Whitley, 1998). However, natural
fractures could considerably enhance these petrophysical
characteristics.
(4) The R3 Zone and the lower part of the R2 Zone potential reservoir
(RSV-IV) is penetrated only at P7 and P10 wells (Figs. 7 and 9).
These fluvial quartzitic middle to coarse-grained and cross-
bedded sandstones correspond to the progradational part of the
LST21 (DS21). On seismic data, lenticular structures and pro­
gradational downlaps corresponding to progradational fluvial
channel deposits have been identified at these sandy levels
(Figs. 8 and 10). This multilayer reservoir (RSV-IV) shows a very
good continuity and a regular gross thickness ranging from 120 to
150 m and it consists of clean massive quartzitic sandy levels with
rare intercalations of thin shaly and silty layers (P10 well). As in
south-eastern Algeria (Hassi Messaoud oil field), the Cambrian
sandstones are very well developed in the Chotts basin. These
sandy levels display good lithological characteristics and exhibit
oil and gas shows while drilling to be considered as promising
potential reservoirs across the study area.
16
Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997
5. Discussion
The Ordovician siliciclastic deposits constitute currently the most
significant Palaeozoic-sourced petroleum accumulations in the Chotts
basin. Hydrocarbons are reservoired in Early Ordovician El Atchane
sandstones and Hamra quartzite, sourced by Late Silurian (Ludlow–­
Pridoli) Hot Shale and sealed by Ordovician – Jurassic (Lias) imper­
meable deposits (shales, evaporates, volcanics, …). Most exploration
wells drilled within the Chotts basin and targeting the Cambro-
Ordovician reservoirs are plugged and abandoned (P&A), typically
with hydrocarbon shows. The main issues encountered in the explora­
tion of these reservoirs are related to their spatial distribution along with
their thickness and facies variations. Application of sequence-
stratigraphic concepts on the analysis of wireline logging records and
the interpretation of seismic data acquired across the Chotts basin had
permitted to identify the sequence organisation of the Cambro-
Ordovician deposits at different scales. This analysis tool had provided
also more effective method for chronostratigraphic correlations of
identified parasequences and associated sandy levels likely to constitute
hydrocarbon reservoirs.
Throughout the Chotts basin, high resolution sequence stratigraphic
analysis of second-order depositional sequences (DS23 and DS21),
display at least four regressive progradational sandy units: prograda­
tional parts of the HST23 and the LST23 corresponding to the Early
Ordovician proven reservoirs (RSV-I and RSV-II) and progradational
parts of the HST21 and the LST21 equivalents to the Cambrian potential
reservoirs (RSV-III and RSV-IV) (Figs. 7 and 11).
Seismic to wells ties and well chronostratigraphic correlations, using
sequence stratigraphic surfaces (SB, TS, MFS) instead of formation tops,
had provided a general overview on the spatial distribution and facies
change of Palaeozoic sequences and associated reservoirs across the
Chotts basin. In fact, the entire Palaeozoic section thickens considerably
in the basinward direction to the North and North-East. In the southern
part of the basin, close to the TTPB uplift (P7 and P10 wells), we note a
significant thinning of these deposits and a reduction in number of the
highlighted second-order sequences from five to two (Figs. 7 and 9).
High resolution well chronostratigraphic correlations of key deposi­
tional sequences (DS23 and DS21) and associated parasequences had
allowed the perception of sandy reservoir continuity, thickness and
facies changes throughout the study area:
✓ The depositional sequence DS23 displays a very good continuity for
several kilometres, a significant thickening in the basinward direc­
tion and a clear variation in parasequences number and thickness on
both sides of syn-sedimentary normal faults (P9 well structure)
(Fig. 11). Post-sedimentary tectonic activities are also proved, where
sequence architecture of the DS23 and subsistence of associated Early
Ordovician reservoirs (RSV-I and RSV-II) are largely controlled by
Arenigian, Taconic and/or Hercynian tectonic events.
In the southern part of the basin, close to the TTPB uplift, where
combined structural-stratigraphic trapping mechanism is clearly pre­
dominant, the presence/absence of the Upper Hamra quartzite reservoir
(RSV-I) is controlled mainly by the Late Hercynian unconformity
(Fig. 12-A). Locally, spatial distribution of this reservoir could be also
influenced by Taconic and/or Arenigian erosional events. On the other
side, at P1 and P20 wells, the Lower El Atchane sandstone reservoir
(RSV-II) show a progressive shaling out in the basinward direction and
could disappear completely by prevalence of clayey deposits (Fig. 12-B).
This facies change might be controlled by deepening of the depositional
environment toward the North and North-East.
High resolution well chronostratigraphic correlations had permitted
also the prediction of spatial distribution and trend directions of reser­
voir levels across the Chotts basin. As displayed by well correlation cross
sections, the depositional sequence DS23 displays a very good continuity
and a significant thickening in the basinward direction. Therefore, the
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir
Upper Hamra quartzite and the Lower El Atchane sandstone reservoirs
(RSV-I and RSV-II) should be deeply buried and we predict thus the
existence of complete reservoir sections (Fig. 12-A and 12-B). In the
south-eastern part of the basin (P1 and P20 wells), where the reservoir
RSV-I appears to be completely removed by the Arenigian unconformity,
the reservoir RSV-II presents a progressive shaling out caused by deep­
ening of the depositional environment. Therefore, exploration of Early
Ordovician reservoirs (RSV-I and RSV-II) should be conducted further
North in the eastern part of the Chotts basin and essentially in the whole
central and western parts which appear much more promising, with a
relevant low to medium geological risk (Fig. 12-A and 12-B). In the
southern part of the basin, close to the TTPB uplift, stratigraphic
entrapment of hydrocarbons on truncated Ordovician sandy levels and
pinchouts (RSV-I and RSV-II) against existing impermeable deposits
(overlying Triassic volcanics and underlying Ordovician shales) might
be possible. Therefore, petroleum prospection of stratigraphic traps in
the vicinity of the TTPB structural high appears very inciting (Fig. 12A
and 12-B). Due to compaction and quartzification, petrophysical char­
acteristics of these reservoirs could decrease considerably with burial
depth. However, interconnected natural fracture networks, close to
intensively faulted and folded areas, could improve the reservoir
quality.
✓ The depositional sequence DS21 displays very good continuity and
clear thickening in the basinward direction. Cambrian potential
reservoirs (RSV-III and RSV-IV) present good lithological character­
istics and exhibit oil and gas shows while drilling (P7 and P10 wells).
In the central part of the Chotts basin, faulted anticline structures
(P2, P7 and P10) and normal-fault tilted blocks (P1, P20) are very
common (Figs. 8–10). Cambrian reservoirs (RSV-III and RSV-IV),
sourced by adjacent Late Silurian source rock and covered by effective
top seals (Ordovician shales, Silurian-Devonian shales, Triassic volca­
nics and evaporates …) could constitute inciting hydrocarbon target for
future exploration activities in the area.
In the southern part of the basin and toward top of the TTPB struc­
ture, where combined traps are predominant, intense erosion could put
in contact Triassic deposits (volcanics, evaporates, …) with truncated
Cambrian reservoirs RSV-III and RSV-IV at P26, 29 and 30 wells (Fig. 12-
C and 12-D). Cambrian sandy level pinch-outs are not excluded, but
need to be confirmed by integration of additional seismic and wells data.
Therefore, stratigraphic closures and pinch-outs of Cambrian potential
reservoirs RSV-III and RSV-IV in the landward direction, close to the
TTPB structural high, may represent a new exploration objective that
could improve the petroleum prospectivity of the Chotts area.
As in south-eastern Algeria (Hassi Messaoud oil field), the Cambrian
sandstones are largely extended in the Chotts basin (Fig. 12-C and 12-D).
The Late Silurian Hot Shale – Cambrian sandstones could constitute
another potential petroleum system active in the area. Efficiency of the
Cambrian play is strictly linked to the presence of an adjacent mature
source rock guaranteeing a favourable hydrocarbon charge and also the
existence of efficient top seals (Ordovician shales, Silurian-Devonian
shales, Triassic volcanics and evaporates …) securing the hydrocarbon
entrapment. Drilling is highly recommended on naturally fractured and
faulted zones to counterbalance poor petrophysical characteristics of
existing Cambrian tight sand reservoirs.
6. Conclusion
Throughout the Chotts basin, sequence stratigraphic analysis of the
subsurface Palaeozoic section on well and seismic data highlights a
maximum of five second - order depositional/seismic sequences (DS21-
DS25/SS21-SS25) separated by regional chronostratigraphic disconti­
nuities. Assessment of the parasequence stacking trends of key deposi­
tional sequences (DS21 and DS23) revealed at least four regressive
progradational sandstone units, corresponding to progradational parts
17
Journal of African Earth Sciences 172 (2020) 103997
of lowstand (LST21 and LST23) and highstand (HST21 and HST23) sys­
tems tracts. These middle to coarse-grained clean sandstones are the
most likely to constitute potential and proven reservoirs. Hence, pro­
gradational Early Ordovician Hamra quartzite and El Atchane sand­
stones are currently the most oil and gas productive proven reservoirs
(RSV-I and RSV-II) in the Chotts Basin. In addition, progradational
Cambrian sandstones of the Ri Zone and R2-R3 Zones could constitute
potential hydrocarbon reservoirs (RSV-III and RSV-IV) in the area.
Seismic to wells ties and high resolution well chronostratigraphic
correlations of Cambro-Ordovician depositional sequences and associ­
ated parasequences had provided a general overview on their spatial
paleogeographic distribution and had allowed to predict trends of
possible petroleum reservoir rocks. Application of this analysis tool had
allowed also the perception of reservoir continuity, thickness and facies
change throughout the study area. In fact, the entire Cambro-Ordovician
section thickens and dips considerably in the basinward direction to the
North and North-East. Moreover, the progradational clean sandy levels
of the reservoir RSV-II display a progressive shaling out and could
disappear completely by basinward prevalence of clayey deposits. In the
southern part of the basin, close to the TTPB structural high, where
erosional events are recurrent and intense, the subsistence of Cambro-
Ordovician reservoirs is mainly controlled by Arenigian, Taconic and/
or Late Hercynian tectonic events. Consequently, facies change and
spatial distribution of Cambro-Ordovician reservoirs are essentially
controlled by syn- and post-sedimentary tectonic activities. The influ­
ence of these events appears in the shaling out of progradational clean
sands by deepening of the depositional environment and also in total or
partial removing of uplifted sandy levels by intensive erosional
truncation.
The petroleum potential of the Chotts basin appears to be much
higher than expected previously and would be found in deeply buried
Cambro-Ordovician reservoirs in the basinward direction. Therefore,
exploration of Early Ordovician reservoirs RSV-I and RSV-II should be
conducted further North in the eastern part of the basin and essentially
in the whole central and western parts which appear much more
promising, with a relevant low to medium geological risk. Cambrian
reservoirs RSV-III and RSV-IV, sourced by adjacent Late Silurian source
rocks and covered by effective top seals could constitute inciting hy­
drocarbon target for future exploration activities in the area. Strati­
graphic closures and pinch-out of Early Ordovician reservoirs and
Cambrian potential reservoirs in the landward direction, over the TTPB
structural high, may represent new exploration objectives that could
improve the petroleum prospectivity of the Chotts basin. Efficiency of
stratigraphic traps is strictly linked to the presence of adjacent mature
source rocks guaranteeing a favourable hydrocarbon charge and also the
existence of efficient seals securing the hydrocarbon entrapment.
The Cambro-Ordovician tight sandstone reservoirs present generally
poor petrophysical characteristics due to compaction and quartz­
ification. Enhancement of reservoir quality might be possible on natu­
rally fractured and faulted zones displaying high secondary porosity and
permeability or by stimulation of these reservoirs through multistage
hydraulic fracturing to improve their productivity index.
Declaration of competing interest
The authors declare that they have no known competing financial
interestsor personal relationships that could have appeared to influence
the work reported in this paper.
Acknowledgments
This research was performed within the Georesource Laboratory in
the Water Research and Technologies Center, Borj Cedria Technopark
(Tunisia) and the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, Tunis-El Manar Univer­
sity. We express our gratitude to Rigo Oil Company for providing seismic
and well data. The authors also would like to thank very much the
R. Gharsalli and M. Bédir
Journal editors as well as the reviewers, Dr. Mohamed Soua (Saudi
Aramco) and Dr. Mohamed Gharbi (CERTE) for their constructive
comments and valuable suggestions which significantly improved the
first draft of the manuscript.
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