The Upper Aptian—Albian Succession of the Sergipe Basin, Brazil: An Integrated Paleoenvironmental Assessment! E. A. M. Koutsoukos,? M. R. Mello,? C. de Azambuja Filho,? M. B. Hart, and J. R. Maxwellé ABSTRACT A combined micropaleontological, geochemical, and sedlimentological study of the upper Aptian-Albian suc- cession from the Sergipe basin, northeastem Brazil, has been undertaken. The paleoenvironmental evolution of the basin from the late Aptian to late Albian can be sub- divided into three major depositional phases: (1) late Aptian, (2) early to middle Albian; (3) late Albian. A shallow carbonate compensation depth within upper mesopelagic depths (c. 300-500 m) is inferred for the late Aptian-albian. Intermittent anoxic events, associated with salinity- stratified water masses, occurred in the basin during the late Aptian to Albian, An oxygen minimum (dysaerobic to anoxic conditions) occurred during the late Aptian to earliest Albian, in middle-outer neritic to upper bathyal settings. Waning dysaerobic to oxic conditions are apparent in the late Albian The foraminiferal assemblages recovered from the upper Aptian marine deposits have a characteristic ‘Tethyan affinity, The microfaunal evidence suggests that this area of the northem South Atlantic had at least some surface water exchange with low-latitude central North Atlantic-westem Tethyan Provinces, even possible at intermediate (epipelagic to mesopelagic) water depths. Contribution of microfaunal elements coming from high- latitude northern (Boreal Realm) and/or southern (AUs- tral) regions is also apparent, although of less significance. Copyright 1991, The American Assocation of Petroleum Geologist. All rights reserven "Manuser received, January 25, 1989; revised manuscript received, January 28,1990 nal accoptance, November 25,1990 lo Brasileiro S.A. (Petobras)-Cenpes, tha do Fundio, CEP: “igane Geschemisty Unt, Universty of ristl, School of Chemisty, Ccantoc's Close, sta! B98 ITS, Ergland We would like to thank Peticiee Brasleio S.A. (Petrobrés), Rio de saneir, Tor permission fo publish hs pape, the gacchemisty and the bnostratigrahy and paleoecology sections of Petrobras’ Research Center (Conpes. Fo de Jara, for asthe slerenta! and bulk analysis and sample preparation for geochemical and micotossh analyst: J.C. Della Favera (etoorasiCenpes). Ray Leonard. Wallace G. Dow. and an anonymous Yor the ertcal reading of the manuscrpt and several constuch Sggestons; ano the caing tection of Petrobras Cenpes for proving final vrsons ofthe hgures. INTRODUCTION This paper describes a multidisciplinary approach, involving a combination of micropaleontological, geo" chemical, and sedimentological studies, in assessing the paleoecology and paleoenvironmental history of deposits from the upper Aptian-Albian succession of the Sergipe basin, northeastern Brazil (Figure 1). For the basin, the availability of well sections (cores and cut tings) and extensive outcrop samples affords an almost complete marine Cretaceous sedimentary record span- ning the upper Aptian to Maestrichtian. Furthermore, the understanding of its Cretaceous stratigraphic sequence is of foremost significance for studies relating to the early geological history and subsequent paleo- ‘ceanographic evolution of the northern South Atlantic Ocean, EXPERIMENTAL AND ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES The studied sections comprised outcrops and oil well sections on the onshore and offshore areas of Sergipe The sites are listed in Appendix 1 (lithostratigraphic UTM coordinates) and their location are shown in Figure 1 Samples were submitted to bulk and geochemical analysis according to procedures described elsewhere (eg,, Mello, 1988; Mello et al., 1989). The sampling and processing methods used for microfossil analysis were standard (cf. Koutsoukos, 1989; Mello et al., 1989; Kout- soukos and Hart, 1990a). All the microfossil data are based on size fractions above 63 um and on minimum, microfossil counts of approximately 300 specimens per sample, The paleoenvironmental interpretations were made within the regional Cretaceous paleogeography Of the basin. The reconstructions are mostly derived from micropaleontological and sedimentological evi dence (Koutsoukos, 1989; Koutsoukos and Hart, 1990b), and supported by the basin structural frame. work and depositional models documented elsewhere (e.g,, Schaller, 1970; Meister and Aurich, 1972; Fisher et al., 1973: Ojeda and Fujita, 1976; Bengtson, 1983: Cunha, 1987; Castro, 1987; Petri, 1987; Berthou and, Bengtson, 1988) 479480 Figure 1—Location map of the basin showing selected wells and sampled localities (see Appendix 1). (GENERAL GEOLOGICAL SETTING The Sergipe basin is the southern part of the Sergipe-Alagoas sedimentary complex, a structurally elongated marginal basin located between latitude 9° and 11°30'S, and longitude 37° and 35°30"W (Figure 0). It has an area of approximately 6000 km? onshore and an additional 5000 km? offshore. Onshore, it covers a narrow coastal strip, approximately 16-50 km wide and about 170 km long, extending up to the Sao Fran- cisco River, in the north. In this area, between Sergipe and Alagoas, the basin is at its maximum width of 50 km. Itis limited on the continent by a boundary system of normal faults and offshore by the continental slope. In the southwestern area is the Estincia platform (Fig- ure 2), where only a thin sedimentary record of Creta- ceous marine deposits is found (Schaller, 1970; Meister and Aurich, 1972; Ojeda and Fugita, 1976; Bengtson, 1983; Petri, 1987) ‘The basin forms a half-graben with a regional dip averaging 10-15° to the southeast, the result of the conti- nental drifting of South America and Africa in the late Mesozoic. It is part of a group of Mesozoic-Cenozoic extensional basins formed along the westem continental ‘margin of the northern South Atlantic during that event and, therefore, is classified as an Atlantic-type basin (Dickinson, 1974; Wilson and Williams, 1979; Asmus, 1981). Its probable counterpart in the African continent is, offshore Gabon (Fernandes, 1966, Reyment and Tait, 1972; Castro, 1987). The sedimentary sequence onshore generally ranges from 1000 to 3000 m thick. In local areas offshore, the sedimentary column may be as much as 9000 thick, with a stratigraphic record spanning a time interval from the Carboniferous() to Holocene (Asmus, and Ponte, 1973; Ponte et al., 1980). This sequence is thought to be one of the most complete of the nothem South Atlantic basins (cf. Bengtson, 1983), with virtually all the rift and postrift succession represented.E. A. M. Koutsoukos et al. 481 Basonent structural franowork (Sergipe-Alagoas Basin) 3 > nlachuelo igh (2 Sanea Rose ae Lina Low Saparaeuba Low 12> S. Mguel doe Campos Platfora. 13 ~ Lagoa Pouin/Joqata igh 14 > coruripe Low 15 7 Alagoas tow wy Figure 2—Basement structural framework of the Sergipe-Alagoas basin (adapted after Cainelli et al., 1987, and Cunha, 1987). GEOHISTORY AND LITHOSTRATIGRAPHY The Mesozoic succession of the Sergipe basin is closely related to the rifting and drifting phases, and exemplifies the early geological history of the northern South Atlantic marginal basins. The basement is charac- terized by local structural highs, lows, and intermediate areas, these being evidence of the strong tectonic activi- ty that has affected the basin since its formation, Normal faults, arranged in preferential trends along zones of ‘weakness in the Precambrian basement, gave rise to a system of horsts and grabens that constitute the more remarkable structural character of the basin (Figure 2). Basically, five major tectonic and sedimentary phases (adapted after Ojeda and Fugita, 1976; Ponte and Asmus, 1976; Figueiredo, 1978; Ponte et al., 1980; Ojeda, 1982) can be distinguished: intracratonic phase (Car boniferous-Permian); prerift phase (Late Jurassic)-ear- liest Cretaceous; Dom Joao local stage), rift phase (Neo- comian to early() Aptian; Rio da Serra, Aratu, Burac Jiquia, and lowermost Alagoas local stages), protoma- rine evaporitic phase (Aptian; Alagoas local stage), and ‘marine phase (late Aptian to Holocene). These corre- spond to the general evolution of the Brazilian conti- nental margin and have been identified, in whole or in part, in all northern South Atlantic basins [As the South Atlantic rift progressively expanded, the sea transgressed over the southem part of the basin from the late Aptian to late Albian. It reached as far north as the Sio Francisco River region and the southernmost part of the Alagoas basin (near the Coruripe Low; Figure 2), the northem part of the Sergipe-Alagoas sedimentary complex. At that time, deposition of the first tue marine carbonate sediments (the Riachuelo Formation) occurred, initiating, the marine phase. However, in the present onshore region of the Alagoas basin, there apparently was no further extensive sedimentation until the late Tertiary (Pliocene?), although there are some records of ammonite-bearing upper Cenomanian beds (Beurlen, 1961; Muniz et al., 1975; and Bengtson and Nordlund, 1987) In the Sergipe basin, outcrops of the Riachuelo For- mation extend along a band from Itaporanga, south of482 Sergipe Basin, Brazil | sens FACIES RELATIONSHIPS Se TY EVOLUTIONARY |_astaces lenw. S.E.>| memaens [ronue| *’°pHases | paceocene 3 Le =| Marituba | & MAESTRICHT, 3 CAMPANIAN Columbi | SANTONIAN g | oceanic CONIACIAN Sepucari | 5 $ | ruromian z= 3 Aracaju | 5 @ | cenomania Q gL SENOMANIAN é Aguithada | 5 a S| aupian Marvin | 3 Taquari g |-—-————| Angico | © oper Za aprian [MUR OTT Oiteirinnos | 52 PMUR_O1T’ So LEGEND condone J] esses EEE] stres =] we EE eee snesores ee eooreees OTT evita tate or wostomty Figure 3—Cretaceous lithostratigraphy of the Sergipe basin (based on Ojeda and Fugita, 1976, and Bengtson, 1983). Tectonic evolutionary phases after Asmus and Baisch (1983). Aracaju, to north of Pacatuba, with a width of approxi- mately 20 km. The formation has an average thickness of 500 m, but locally thicknesses reach 1700 m. Four members can be distinguished (Figure 3) (ef. Schaller, 1970; Schaller et al., 1980). The Angico Member occu mainly near the base of the sequence, overlying the Muribeca Formation, close to the western interior mar- gin of the basin, where it represents a syntectonic facies. It consists of conglomeratic to very fine-grained. sandstones, interbedded with siltstones, shales (Figure 4), and rare thin beds of limestones with pelecypod shells. Toward the east, the Angico Member grades into the deposits of the Taquari Member. The latter consists of alternating deposits of shales, siltstones, and, occasionally, thin beds of grayish limestones, which appear to have accumulated in slightly deeper water. The overlying Maruim Member is mainly oolitic/oncolitic and bioclastic limestones, and some red algal, patch reef structures (well preserved in out. crops), with a few intercalations of siliciclastic material Figure 5). It reaches a maximum thickness of 600 m in the east. The lithological characteristics of the Maruim Member indicate an environmental change from the relatively deep and quiet waters of the Taquari deposits to a shallower and more turbulent environ- ment. The saccharoidal dolomites of the Aguilhada Member commonly occur with some intercalations of ine to conglomeratic sandstones, shales, and sporadic nondolomitized limestones. It represents a dolomitie facies of the Marium Member. PALEOENVIRONMENTAL EVOLUTION ‘The upper Aptian-Albian succession (Riachuelo For- mation) in the Sergipe area is a carbonate-dominatedE. A. M. Koutsoukos et al. 483 Figure 4—Locality A.27. Riacliuelo Formation, Angico Member (conglomeratic facies); lower-middle Albian, Conglomerate to fine sandstone showing normal grading and a faint parallel lamination with, in some cases, cross-lamination above. Associated with these beds are well stratified layers of siltstone and shales. The siltstones usually have a normal grading. A few meters below this point is a medium to coarse bioclastic to oolitic sandstone with wave-generated sedimentary structures. sequence of calcareous mudstones and oolitic/oncol- itic-bioclastic grainstones/packstones, together with less frequent conglomerates, sandstones, marls, and shales. The calcareous mudstones were deposited in restricted shelf environments (pelmicrites) and in off- shore, open shelf to upper slope marine conditions (biomicrites) during peak carbonate deposition at maxi- mum relative sea level rises. The packstones/grain. stones were deposited in moderate to high energy shoals, whereas the coarse deposits were accumulated by turbiditie currents in open neritic to bathyal settings. The environmental evolution of the basin from the late Aptian to late Albian can be divided into three major depositional phases: (1) late Aptian, (2) early to middle Albian, and (3) late Albian. Each depositional phase is discussed separately ‘THE UPPER APTIAN SUCCESSION This succession (exemplified by outcrops, locality A- 38, Figure 6, and the lower sections of wells 1-CA-1-SE and 1-US-1-SE, Figures 7, 8) represents probably the first ‘rue marine sedimentation in the northern proto-South Atlantic Ocean. In the basin, the transition from the non- marine (hypersaline lacustrine; Mello, 1988, data for the Sergipe basin) to marine (carbonate-dominated) cycle was marked by a depositional hiatus and an abrupt change in the microfauna, The deposits of the preceding nonmarine cycle (protomarine evaporitic phase; pre-late Aptian?) yield only carbonized wood fragments, fish Figure 5—Locality A-33. Carapeba quarry. Riachuelo: Formation, Maruim Member; upper Albian. (3) Grain. stone/packstone with sedimentary structures generated by tides and waves in high-energy shoals. (2) Dolomitic miarls. (3) Packstone/wackestone with numerous gastropods and some oyster banks, Plant remains and Pervasive bioturbation were common in this lagoonal avironment. (4) Dolomitie marl with plant remains. debris, rare microgastropods, and rare ostracods, with no evidence of an open-marine influence. Extensive accu- mulation of halite, carnallte, tachyhydrite, sylvinite, and anhydrite took place during that time, probably in’'sub- aerial (sabkha) settings and marginal subaqueous (salina) environments (e.g, Warren and Kendall, 1985), along “tidal’-type feeding channels, marginal lagoons, and interlagoonal salt flats (Szatmari et al., 1979). The first marine microfaunal elements appeared during the late Aptian. In the northeastern area (Aracaju High; Figure 2), the microfauna recovered from finely laminated calcare- ous mudstones and shales includes abundant, but low- diversity micropelecypods and microgastropods, with fish debris and very scarce ostracods. This suggests the development of extensive tidal flats in an intertidal to shallow subaqueous, hypersaline marginal sea (Kout- soukos et al, 1989), with the influence of nearby open marine conditions. Less than 2 m above this level is a “bloom” of favusellids (hedbergellid ecophenotypes) of varied test sizes and morphology, along with rare small nodosariids and ichthyolariids (Koutsoukos et al., 1989). The microfauna still includes micropelecypods, microgas- tropods, and fish debris, suggesting similar hypersaline water conditions in a warm and shallow marine carbon- ate environment. The episodic restoration of paralic con- ditions (indicated by occasional levels with common specimens of micropelecypods, and microgastropods and no foraminifers or echinoids) later in the sequence, clearly points to the cyclic nature of local sea level changes during this very early marine episode. In the lowermost marine deposits of well I-CA-L-SE (FigSergipe Basin, Brazil Boor vo scaler OUTCROPS OF SERGIPE BASIN, RIACHUELO FORMATION 2 FORAWNIFERA Ten, es 2 2 a Lane Asa T x LI urren | —] 5 ; | atoian]ax] 2 an i L s t 7 e 7 T : 3 <2 a 7 i+ on ystan|**| 3 i up _# z ee i ii 2 $-# 3 44 y i aad ddd owen |_| & pie i acorn i fe = ae : a to fas 5 J 3 fm urPER |. 59] la lee | |eorian|*™* f & (< 200pM) @ (300-500M) (4) mcs ano nownvcose CS Figure 6—Stratigraphic distribution, relative abundance, and depositional paleoenvironments of foraminiferal assemblages and associated microfossils in upper Aptian to Albian outcrops of the Sergipe basin. See Figure 3 for lithological symbols. ure 7), in the westem area of the basin, lagoonal environ- ments are also recorded. The microfauna characterstically includes agglutinated specimens with a predominance of large-sized (c, 1400-1980 um in maximum length) Ammobaculitessp. f. A. coprolithiformis (Schwager), Hap- Jopbragmium lueckei (Cushman and Hedberg), and Bucci crenata c, 1000-1560 jum in maximum diameter), together ‘with micropelecypods and microgastropods. The common, ‘occurrence of oolites in these deposits suggests the exis- tence of burrier-like oolite shoals nearby (see Figure 9). More open waters (inner to middle neritic) were characterized, later in the sequence, by a less abundant favusellid population, with less morphological variabili- ty and larger test size (ephebic and gerontic forms) (Koutsoukos et al., 1989). The associated benthic foraminifera biota is representative of the inner middle- shelf Marssonella Association of Haig (1975). In deeper environments of the late Aptian (Figures 7-9), the favusellid assemblages sharply decline in num- ber. They are progressively replaced by numerous other planktonic foraminifera with a rugose (pustules and/or costellae) chamber surface and in turn by abundant specimens of non-omamented Hedbergella(e.g., H. CH.) gorbachikae Longoria, H. CH.) similis Longorial, Ticinel- Ja (T. bejaouaensis Sigal] and Globigerinelloids le.g., G. barri (Bolli, Boeblich and Tappan), G. ex gr. mari- dalensis (Bolli). (ex gr.” = “of the group,” indicating that the sampled population is part of a group compris- ing several, closely related, polytypic morphotypes.) The presence of “Alysch-type” primitive single-cham- bered agglutinated foraminifera (Bathysipbon, Hyper- ammina), together with Budashevaella, Trochammi- noides, sparse Lenticulina, and a diverse planktonic microfauna in well 1-US-1-SE (Figure 8; e.g., core 9: 1139.20 m, Angico Member), represent the deepest deposits from the late Aptian, accumulated in an outer neritic to upper bathyal setting (Figure 9). LOWER TO MIDDLE ALBIAN Paralic conditions (lagoonal environments) persisted during the early Albian in the northwestern part of the basin, as recorded in locality A-32 (Figures 6, 10). The strata are characteristically interbedded layers of shales, ‘marls, calcareous mudstones, and grainstones/packstones (helly levels). The microfauna includes abundant elongate muttichambered agglutinated foraminifers 'Ammobaculites and Haplopbragmium ex gr. foedissimum (Reuss); smaller than the late Aptian assemblages] with rare Buccicrenata.E. A. M. Koutsoukos et al. 485 WELL -CA-FSE T= cureon_| “oer. Re or] 7 HE ina] a Ace {sma 4 1 1 to UPPER =I i= steun i q| = tomes | § ps wean i upper peTUN () 1 ° (OASED ON 200 - SPECIMEN COUNTS 20 ‘OF THE FRACTION > 89 pm) ™ Figure 7—Stratigraphic distribution, relative abundance, and depositional paleoenvironments of foraminiferal assemblages and associated microfossils in the upper Aptian to Albian succession of well 1-CA-1-SE, with ‘geochemical logs. See Figure 3 for lithological symbols. Several stratigraphic levels in the lower to middle Albian yield an abundant and well diversified fauna of microgastropods and micropelecypods (e.g., Figures 6, 7). This remarkable micromollusk assemblage is consis- tently found in the upper Aptian pelitic deposits of the lowermost sections of the Riachuelo Formation, and is associated with deposition in marginal marine to paralic environments (hypersaline tidal flats; see above). Contin- ‘uous micromollusk occurrence, in abundance and higher diversity (where the same taxa could be informally identi- fied) in the lower to middle Albian part of the Riachuelo Formation, are an indication that hypersaline bottom ‘water persisted during the early to middle Albian, ‘THE ANGICO MEMBER AND ITS TURBIDITIC CHARACTER Outcrops of the Angico Member (Figure 4), on the southwestern margin of the basin, and a core section (Figure 11) exemplify the upper Aptian-Albian turbiditic sedimentary succession. The outcrop section comprises cyclic siliciclastic turbiditites (cf. Schaller et al., 1980). ‘The individual sequences are characterized by a basal oligomictic conglomerate (quartz or quartzite pebbles of various sizes in a sandy matrix) grading upward into a sandstone with faint parallel lamination. These are over- hain by a moderately laminated siltstone showing normal grading that ends in a thin siltstone/shale “quas hemipelagic layer (Figures 4, 11). A few meters below this facies, in the locality A-27, is a bioclastic (pelecy- pods, echinoids), oolitic sandstone displaying sedimen- lary structures produced by waves, indicating that this, basal part was within the normal wave base. No micro- fauna was recovered from the sandy turbiditic deposits, but the pelitic (hemipelagic) layer yields foraminifers and ostracods (Figure 11), This microfauna suggests a middle neritic environment, a conclusion in agreement with the sedimentological evidence (see paleogeo- ‘graphic reconstruction in Figure 12), The core section (well 1-US-1-SE, core 5: 678-6815, m; middle Albian; Figures 8, 11) consists of a sequence of polymictic conglomerate (pebbles of quartz, lime- stones and shales in a muddy to sandy matrix) overlying finely laminated black shales. The sandy and pelitic tur- biditic intervals contain a rich microfauna of calcareous planktonic and benthic foraminifers (see Figure 11) together with subordinate amounts of agglutinated specimens, the latter being reworked from both shal- lower, outer shelf to upper slope environments, andSergipe Basin, Brazil WELL I-US-I-SE FORAMINFERA TT arian OxVGEN NOE forcavec] HYOROGEN canon} WOEX eno oermerments [ETA fp 7 TOE fuolrelind 2 | | ae (BASED ON s00 - SPECIMEN COUNTS B10 (OF THE FRACTION > 2 pm) = Figure 8—Stratigraphic distribution, relative abundance and depositional paleoenvironments of foraminiferal assemblages and associated microfossils in upper Aptian to Albian of well 1-US. Figure 3 for lithological legend. also from previous hemipelagites in the deep basin, The hemipelagic shales contain an abundant microfauna composed of primitive single-chambered agglutinated foraminifers (Bathysipbon and Hyperammina), together with rare multichambered and coiled specimens (Buda- shevaella). This low-diversity agglutinated fauna repre- sents the autochthonous biota (Figure 11), Its similar in composition, although less diversified, to assemblages found in certain flysch deposits from Cretaceous and Paleogene abyssal environments below the carbonate compensation depth (e.g, the Gumigel/Schlieren flysch, Switzerland: Butt, 1980, Winkler, 1984; the Solignano and Monte Cassio flysch, northern Italian Apennines: Morlotti, 1988). Further support to a turbidite interpreta tion is given by isopach and lithofacies maps and seismic (e.g., Ojeda and Fugita, 1976) which indicate the thickest deposition of the Angico Member in a structural low (Divina Pastora low; Figure 2), near the area of well 1- US-1-SE, The evidence demonstrates that the coarse SE, with geochemical logs. See Albian deposits of the Angico Member are related to tec- tonically induced submarine gravity debris flows and associated turbidity currents formed in immature fan delta systems and continental slope deposits enriched in pelagic sediments from the middle neritic to upper bathyal (see Figures 11, 12), which supports the previous sedimentological interpretations of Schaller e¢ al. (1980). FORAMINIFER ASSEMBLAGES AND THE CARBONATE COMPENSATION DEPTH (CCD) The absence of calcareous microfauna from hemipelagic layers of the upper slope, with only siliceous agglutinated foraminifers, suggests complete calcite dissolution. This may have been caused by increased acidity of the interstital waters following early diagenetic CO, generation (e.g., Berger, 1978) and/or by CO;-ich, acidic, corrosive bottom waters. A some-What restricted water circulation (see Figures 9, 12) cou- pled with excessive CO, in the water column could have also contributed to a local shallowing of the CCD to upper mesopelagic levels in the late Aptian to Albian, which would account for the absence of calcareous tests including planktonics) in hemipelagic deposits of the upper slope. Interbedded laminated sandstone layers containing abundant calcareous, planktonic, and benth- ic foraminifers would represent rapidly deposited mate- rial transported from shallower water by turbidity cur- rents, which prevented the dissolution of calcareous tests (see Figure 1D. Therefore, the pelitic deposits containing an exclu- sive agglutinated foraminiferal biota represent an autochthonous hemipelagic facies, deposited below the foraminiferal lysocline, in relatively deep waters (proba~ bly upper slope, c, 300-500 m; see Figures 11, 12). An abnormally shallow CCD to upper mesopelagic levels, probably induced by excessive dissolved CO, in the water column and a somewhat restricted water circula- tion, would have contributed to the postmortem dissolu- tion of all the planktonic calcareous tests in the hemipelagic layers. UPPER ALBIAN ‘The upper Albian in Sergipe is characterized locally by a progressively shallowing trend in water depth, a8 opposed to the general deepening trend on the Brazilian continental margin at that time (e.g. Koutsoukos and Dias-Brito, 1987; Spadini et al., 1988). Outcrops of the upper Albian of the Maruim Member in the southwestern area (Figures 5, 6) are typically represented by olitic/oncolitic bioclastic grainstones/packstones, with minor interbedding of calcareous mudstones and marl, deposited in paralic and shallow neritic environments, (cf. Schaller et al., 1980). Several dolomitized levels are seen, indicating local influence of freshwater diagenetic processes. However, in the uppermost Albian sections of wells 1-CA-1-SE and 1-US-I-SE (Figures 7, 8) deeper environments (middle to outer neritic) are characterized by calcareous mudstones (Taquari Member) containing, numerous planktonic foraminifers with a pustulose and/or rugose chamber surface le.g,, Hedbergella CH.) ex ig. delrioonsis (Carsey), Ticinella ex gr. raynaudi Sigal, T. roberti (Gandolfi), and Praeglobotruncana delrioensis (Plummen)] and nonrugose specimens. The occurrence of these “pustulose/rugose” planktonic morphotypes (Hedbergella, “a costellae” assemblage of Saint-Marc. 1973, and Caron, 1978) in the uppermost Albian to low- ermiost Cenomanian sections are considered to reflect a more neritic type of environment (shallower than 100 m of water depth; ef. Caron, 1978, and Leckie, 1987), prob- ably also associated with a warming climate at the end of the Albian-onset of the Cenomanian (e.g,, Spaeth et al, 1971). The schematic paleoenvironmental model of microfossil distribution proposed for the marginal E. A. M. Koutsoukos et al. 487 @D-evwronnes D-coure sHoas BB-wans avo shaies (Bl-rnecaweran saseuent asa Figure 9—Reconstruction of the late Aptian paleo- geography of the studied area. Key sites are plotted in their approximate locations. marine environments of the upper Aptian to middle Albian succession of Sergipe (cf. Koutsoukos et a., 1989, their Figure 5), gives further support to this interpreta- tion, Just a few meters below this uppermost Albian level, deeper pelagic conditions (outer neritic to upper bathyal) are suggested by the appearance of Biticinella breggiensis (Gandolfi) with frequent nonrugose hed- bergellids and other ticinellids (Ticinella madecassiana Sigal, 7: praeticinencisSigal, 7. ex gr. primula Luterbach- er, T. roberti (Gandolfi)] (Figures 7, 8). ‘The scenario envisaged for the latest Albian is a con- tinuing water depth decrease in the southwestern are: (eg, locality 4-33; Figure 5), probably caused by a local uplift of the basement. The rest of the onshore and off- shore areas reveal a slight sea level shallowing (suggest- ed by the common assemblages of pustulose/rugose hedbergellids and ticinellids) (Figure 13). Figure 14 outlines the taxonomic selection, relative abundances, and distribution of microfossils, mainly based on foraminiferal paleocommunities, in the upper Aptian-Albian succession. The integrated data suggest a ‘warm, hypersaline (see below), and relatively shallow (probably not deeper than 300-500 m) marine environ- ment for the late Aptian to Albian of the studied area (see Figures 9, 12, 13). LATE APTIAN TO ALBIAN ANOXIC EPISODES AND PALEOCEANOGRAPHY. During the middle Cretaceous, the basin experienced the effects of periodic expansion and intensification of a488 Sergipe Basin, Brazil Figure 10—Locality A-32. Lagoonal facies with influence of storm waves. Riachuelo Formation, Taquarl Member; lowermost Albian, mid-water oxygen minimum zone, apparently ubiqui- tous in the northern South Atlantic at that time (e.g., Koutsoukos, 1984; Viviers, 1986; Herbin et al., 1987; Arai, 1988; Mello, 1988). The schematic paleoceano- graphic setting shown in Figure 15 illustrates an ideal- ized reconstruction for the late Aptian to Albian in the South Atlantic. t shows a slight influx of normal marine ‘water from the central North Atlantic into the north end of the Brazil-Angola basin. High rates of evaporation of surface waters in the hot, arid northern areas of the South Atlantic caused an increase in bottom-water density and a southward flowing current of anoxic waters, spilling into the Argentine-Cape basin, which had oxygenated deep waters at that time. The following geochemical and micropaleontological evidence is presented for the late Aptian to Albian anoxic episodes of the studied area. GEOCHEMISTRY Figure 16 shows two typical geochemical well logs, along with the stratigraphic position of the organic-rich upper Aptian-Albian carbonates that have been chosen as specific examples. The sequence is typically charac- terized by the presence of organic-rich (TOC up to 12%) dark gray marls (CaCO, up to 39%) and calcareous black. shales (CaCO, up to 16%). The Rock-Eval pyrolysis data indicate a predominance of good to excellent hydrocar- bon source potential (S up to 46 kg HC/ton of rock), largely arising from the presence of type II kerogen LOWER MIDDLE ALBIAN PROXIMAL DISTAL (FROM THE SW BORDER OF THE BAS) REPRESENTATIVE SECTIONS + { OUTEROP A-27 ) ENVIRONMENT OF DEPOSITION + MIDDLE NERITIC. (WELL 1-U8-1-$6: 806-906 u, CORE 5678.60: HEMIP.) UPPER BATHYAL, BELOW THE LYSOCLINE TOCHTHON “ar HUTOCHTYCNOUS BOTA Cenriousa CTDE GLOSIGERNE: Loves, HeneeREELLA EAS (FAWUSELUA) tenetnoeite SANT (henseneet TiCMELLA — ‘Tureiorre. no micorauneRecoveReD oLicomieree # BASAL ComoLoMERATE [ehasteicnos hracasvia, sunacrcpers BSHTHYSIPHON, BUDKSHEWAELLA, yPerawna'= 1c) ONORAOIOES,CPISTOMINA, GAVELINELLA, GLOBOROTALITES, G¥ROIONCIOES, LENTIOUUNA, RAMULINA SPRING, TRISTIX, TURRISPILLiKA ANMORACULITES, ATHYSIPHCN SUDASHEVAELLA, AYPERAMMINA, WERSSONELLA, TEXTULARIA, ‘uisisPiRorLEcTaMMNA eDaenceL Ls raruseLLe), EDOERGELLA, AEOBERGELLAY,TICIELLA Hew, Pouyuicric BASAL CONGLOMERATE. Figure 11—Schematic models of two turbidite sequences of the lower to middle Albian (Angico Member, Riachuelo Formation) and their microfossil content. TA, TB, TC, TD, and TE indicate Bouma sequence parts. (C) indicates common (i.e., 10-30 specimens per sample). The proximal section would be about 15-35 cm high; the distal section would be about 1 m high,E. A. M. Koutsoukos et al. Figure 12—Reconstruction of the early to middle Albian paleogeography of the studied area. Key sites are plotted in their approximate locations. See Figure 3 for lithological symbols. (hydrogen index up to c. 709 mg HG/g organic carbon; Figure 16). Microscopic examination of this organic-rich sequence shows generally 40-60% amorphous organic matter, probably comprising phytoplankton and bacteri- al remains, around 20-30% herbaceous material, com- prising mainly pollen and spores, and 20-30% woody and coaly organic matter. In the wells analyzed, this sequence shows, however, vitrinite reflectance values less than 0.6% R,, spore coloration indices less than 5.0, and Rock-Eval Tyg, data less than 440°C, Such data indi- ‘cate that the succession in the Sergipe basin is immature, and is not considered to be a source of commercial quantities of petroleum. Since the studied wells were chosen to represent different areas of the basin, it is, apparent from the presence of organic and hydrogen- rich layers throughout the upper Aptian~Albian (e.g., Figures 7, 8, 16) that most of the succession was deposit- ed under anoxic bottom conditions in most of the basin. The hydrocarbon biological marker distributions show a number of features (e.g., Figure 17) observed previously in sediments deposited in a marine carbonate environment (cf. MeKirdy et al., 1984; Palacas et al., 1984; Zumberge, 1984). These include a dominance of phytane over pristane linked with an even over odd n- alkane preference, low abundances of diasteranes rela- tive to steranes (e'g., peaks 6 and 7 vs, peaks 8 and 10 for C,» steranes), low hopane/sterane ratios (peak 35/peaks 8 + 10), presence of the triterpane gammacer- ane (peak 40), regular C35 isoprenoid alkane and squalane (iC), high abundances of vanadyl relative to nickel porphyrins, and the occurrence of Cys alpha-beta Figure 13—Reconstruction of the late Albian paleo- geography of the studied area. Key sites are plotted in their approximate locations. See Figure 3 for Hthological symbols. hopanes in higher or similar abundance to their C3, counterparts (peaks 45 vs. 44) (see Mello et al., 19883 and 1988b, for details) Furthermore, there is also evidence of features which suggest increased salinity in the water column over normal marine conditions. These include the presence of gam- macerane and the regular C35 isoprenoid (i-C3s) and squalane (i-C,,) in high abundance and concentration, associated with the presence of the Cy) alkane beta- carotane in relatively high abundance. Such features have been widely reported in sediments associated with anoxic depositional environments having hypersaline water columns (e.g., Hills et al, 1966; Waples et al, 1974; Moldowan et al., 1985; Jiang and Fowler, 1986; Fu Jiamo et al., 1986; ten Haven et al., 1987), Such compounds have also been reported in high concentrations in Aptian. evaporitic (hypersaline depositional environment) deposits from the Brazilian marginal basins (Mello, 1988). A dominance of phytane over pristane (Pr/Ph, 0.5-0.8) is also consistent with increase water column salinity, since it has been suggested that the ratio reflects differences in source input rather than simply anoxic conditions of deposition (cf. Didyk et al, 1978), and that low ratios Pr/Ph are diagnostic of increased salinity (ten Haven et al., 1988; Mello et al., 1988), ‘MICROPALEONTOLOGY ‘The upper Aptian-Albian microfossil content is char- acteristically rich in planktonic foraminiferal assem-490 Sergipe Basin, Brazil LATE APTIAN TO ALBIAN | wWeRITIC | paraute | wwner | poue | ure | UPPER Bxravan omcourres/ooures, | 4 naevopnacann ! oe flpetabaee* a! 7 re i semen a an ee cones lg rom conorsones eat! cata mentee oad sas | t sxnsritno Figure 14 Schematic paleoevironmental distribution (taxonomic selection and relative abundances) of microfossils in the upper Aptian to Albian succession of Sergipe (taken from Koutsoukos and Hart, 1990b, their Figure 7). The arrows indicate displaced occurrences, drifted by gravity currents. N. ATLANTIC [ovvrorsmowy sour aruawric t wavs. = RIDGE ‘ne oe io orator oss) ANGOLA- BRAZIL BASIN CAPE ~ ARGENTINE FALKLAND | a on FRACTURE ZONE. Figure 15—Idealized paleoceanographic setting for the late Aptian to Albian in the South Atlantic (modified and adapted afier Natland, 1978, and Summerhayes, 1987). blages of globular-chambered specimens with tro- terns are characteristic of water mas choidal, planispiral and, very rarely in the uppermost genated epipelagic layers, Albian, triserial and biserial tests. Such microfossil pat- Decreasing oxygen levels in bottom waters, at or near 's with well-oxy-* kg HC}ton rock E. A. M. Koutsoukos et al. 491 1-cAU-3-SE oro gle Wlg a mT * kg HCjton rock Figure 16—Geochemical well logs with the stratigraphic position of the organic-rich upper Aptian-Albian sediments. See Figure 3 for lithological symbols. the sediment/water interface, seem to have had a differ- ential effect on the benthic foraminifers, contributing to a progressive impoverishment (in diversity and total abundance) and test-size diminution of the calcareous assemblages. The generally impoverished benthic microfauna of the upper Aptian-middle Albian is, in several ways, similar to the foraminiferal morphotypes. recovered from Cenomanian-Turonian anoxic deposits in the basin (Koutsoukos et al., 1990, in press). The low diversity and low number of specimens per sample, with limited intraspecific variations and variable number of agglutinated individuals (c. 20-100%), are typical fea~ tures of anoxic biotopes. A maximum in development of dysaerobic to anoxic conditions occurred during the late Aptian to earliest Albian, in middle neritic to upper bathyal settings (e.g., Figures 7, 8). This event is characterized by organic-rich (TOC 2-12%, high hydrogen and low oxygen indices), dark-gray marls and calcareous black shales containing, either no benthic microfauna or very impoverished low- diversity assemblages of calcareous (alabaminids and coiled vaginulinids) and agglutinated foraminifers (usu- ally represented by bathysiphonids, hippocrepinids, ammosphaeroidinids, and eggerellids, with minor occurrences of lituotubids, spiroplectamminids, textu- lariids, verneuilinids, and trochamminids). A “residual” microfauna composed exclusively by agglutinated forms characterized the darker, less calcareous layers (e.g., Figure 7), Possible microfauna responses to hypersaline bottom waters could be (1) the abundant and well diversified biota of micropelecypods and microgastropods in the lower to middle Albian section (the same assemblages, with fewer species, were recorded in paralic biotopes from the upper Aptian); and, (2) the predominance of large populations of favusellids (middle Cretaceous hed- bergellid ecophenotypes adapted to shallow, warm, hypersaline, carbonate-saturated environments) in nearshore biotopes (Koutsoukos et al., 1989). PALEOCEANOGRAPHY Herbin et al, (1987), Magniez-Jannin and Jacquin (1988), and Jacquin and Graciansky (1988), through studies of Cretaceous sediments from several Deep Sea Drilling Project and Ocean Drilling Program sites, reported an anoxic event, with coeval deposition of organic-rich deposits, spanning the late Jurassic (Oxfor- dian) to middle Albian in the northern South Atlantic492 Sergipe Basin, Brazil 16 Pr/Ph:O5 || M/Z 217 y 4 CaCOs:37% 3°C 1 BT 8 aye ts| tte . He _ : Mand Ul! \ M/Z 191 56 33 28, | Te ; ‘s 4 ws Re ee a UL Mohd ty Figure 17—Hydrocarbon biological marker distributions from representative samples (for peak assignments, see Appendix 2). (Angola basin), north of the Sao Paulo Plateau-Walvis Ridge. This episode of oxygen depletion has been previ ously studied and identified from diverse basinal tings of the world ocean and has been termed the late Barremian-Albian “oceanic anoxic event” (OAE 1) by Schlanger and Jenkyns (1976) and Jenkyns (1980). Sev- eral models have been suggested for the origin of this, episode, such as restricted paleoceanographic settings sluggish circulation, salinity stratification, increased con tinental runoff, high phytoplankton productivity, exis tence of a mid-water oxygen minimum zone, local upwelling conditions, and intense and widespread deep-sea volcanic activity (particularly significant during the early period of development of the South Atlantic mid-oceanic ridge), among others (e.g., Schlanger and Jenkyns, 1976; Thiede and van Andel, 1977; Arthur and Natland, 1979; Keith, 1982; Waples, 1983; Stow, 1987: Jacquin and de Graciansky, 1988; Mello et al., 1989), However, it is more likely that the interplay of various processes may have contributed, on a regional or larg- er scale, t0 intensify and prolong the local imprint of the anoxic events in the sedimentary record. According to Herbin et al. (1987) oxidizing condi- tions were established during the late Albian, as suggest- ed by the low organic-carbon content of the sediments (commonly <0.2%5). Waning dysaerobic to oxic condi- tions are also apparent within the upper Albian succes- sion of the Sergipe basin, a probable consequence of less restricted oceanic exchange between the South Atlantic and North Atlantic, with the establishment of more open oceanic circulation patterns. These more aer- ated bottom-water conditions are characterized by deposits with moderate to low TOC contents and benth- ic assemblages of calcareous foraminifers with fewer agglutinated specimens (Figures 7, 8). In addition, the onset of radiolarian assemblages in the middle late Albian (e.g, Figure 8) is remarkable. It is thought to be a response to high epipelagic primary productivity, better developed oceanic circulation, and a Water mass Saturat- ed in dissolved silica (Koutsoukos and Hart, 1990a), per- haps generated by deep-sea volcanic processes in the formation of early oceanic crust and the mid-oceanic ridge in the northern South Atlantic (cf. Berthou and, Bengtson, 1988).+o * +e E. A. M. Koutsoukos et al. 493 @M+M+a (1) Globigerineloides barri-Globoides ex ge. {ferreolensis-Globoides ex ge. maridalensis- Hedbergelia similis (2) Epistomina carpenteri-E. chapmani- Ex spinulifera ) Lingulogavelinellaciryi - Gavelinella barremiana-G.flandrini plexus - Pseudogaudryinella/Spiroplectinata ex gr. dividens Figure 18—Late Albian to early Albian foraminiferal geographic distribution. The arrows suggest the most likely migratory routes for the foraminiferal assemblages. Plotted on a paleogeographic map for the middle Cretaceous (100 Ma; late Albian) after Barron et al. (1981) (adapted after Koutsoukos, in press, his Figure 3). The following paleoceanographic scenario may be envisaged for the studied area: the relativel waters and somewhat restricted long, narrow Gee Figures 9, 12, 13) largely contributed to the tion of bottom-water circulation; higher rates of nutrient supply may have resulted from increased continental runoff; periodic stable water-mass stratification occurred in the basin, perhaps a consequence of higher rates of evaporation at low latitudes and somewhat sluggish cir- culation in the deep basins; widespread eutrophic con- ditions led to major changes in surface-water productivi- ty and episodic depletion of oxygen in deeper water masses. More stable and widespread anoxia would then, have developed periodically in the deep basin, especial: ly through the narrow and deeper seaways (Koutsoukos, etal, in press), In summary, the geochemical results indicate that the upper Aptian fo Albian marine carbonate organic-rich sedimentary succession from the Sergipe basin was, deposited under intermittent anoxic bottom conditions, with salinity-stratfied water masses. The micropaleonto- logical record seems to support this evidence and sug- gests the presence of dysaerobie to anoxic bottom waters over the shelf and upper slope during the late Aptian t0 middle Albian, PALEOBIOGEOGRAPHY Although a certain degree of endemism is present, the foraminifers recovered from the upper Aptian marine deposit reveal a characteristic Tethyan affinity (Figures494 Sergipe Basin, Brazil 6-8), The microfaunal evidence from Sergipe suggests that this area had at least some surface water exchange with low-latitude central North Atlantic-western Tethyan Provinces during that time (cf, Koutsoukos, in press) (Figure 18), Furthermore, in the upper Aptian to upper Albian succession of the northern South Atlantic, is the first occurrence of “flysch-type” tubular-shaped, single- chambered, agglutinated foraminifers (Bathy'sipbon, Hyperammina; Figures 7. 8). Their occurrence in outer neritic and upper bathyal depositional settings in Sergipe suggests a more likely provenance from northem regions and the possible existence of moderate interchange of epipelagic to mesopelagic waters with the central North Atlantic. Some microfaunal affinities are also present among the earliest benthic foraminifers of Sergipe and assemblages of the Boreal and Austral Realms (as defined by Scheibnerova, 1971). This may also suggest contribution of microfaunal elements from high latitude northern and/or southern regions, although of minor sig- nificance in the colonization and composition of the late Aptian to Albian foraminiferal biotopes of Sergipe (ct Koutsoukos, in press) Specimens of Rotalipora (R. appenninica (Renz), R. brotzeni Sigal), a typical Tethyan planktonic group, are first recorded in Sergipe from the lowermost Cenomani- an sediments, Rotaliporids have also been reported from distal offshore sections of the uppermost Albian in the Santos (Viviers, 1987) and Campos (Azevedo et al., 1987) basins, both in southeastern Brazil. Their scarcity in the latest Albian of the northern South Atlantic sug- gests a type of pelagic restriction, probably related 10 insufficient water depth (cf. Koutsoukos and Dias-Brito, 1987; Koutsoukos and Hart, 1988), The presence of a considerably well-developed oxygen minimum zone of variable intensity and thickness, conspicuous in the northern South Atlantic during the middle Cretaceous (see above) is likely to have had been of further restraint to the migration and development of deep-water kecled planktonic morphotypes (e.g., Hart and Bailey, 1979: Caron and Homewood, 1983; Hart and Ball, 1986). CONCLUSIONS The paleoenvironmental evolution of the upper Aptian-Allbian succession of Sergipe can be divided into three major depositional phase: (2) Late Aptian. This represents the record of the first marine sedimentation in the northern proto-South Atlantic Ocean, Extensive paralic conditions (tidal flats, and lagoons) developed in the noheastemn and westem. ‘onshore areas of the basin. These were replaced in time and space by inner to middle-outer neritic environments, in a warm, hypersaline, marginal epicontinental sea. (2) Early to middle Albian, Paralic conditions sill per- sisted at certain locations. Local tectonism caused widespread deposition in the west of turbidite deposits (Angico Member) in outer neritic to upper bathyal set- tings, Hemipelagic layers from the deepest sections yield an abundant microfauna exclusively composed of primitive one-chambered agglutinated foraminifers (bathysiphonids and hippocrepinids) together with rare ‘multichambered specimens (ammosphaerodinids). (3) Late Albian, Near the end of the Albian, the south- western area was characterized by shallowing of the water column, probably due to local uplift of the base- ment. The rest of the onshore and offshore area show a slight shallowing depositional trend. A shallow carbon- ate compensation depth within upper mesopelagic depths (c. 300-500 m) is inferred for the late Aptian t0 Albian. The organic carbon content, Rock-Eval pyrolysis results, and biological marker distributions, together with the distributional pattems of the microfossil assem- blages, indicate that intermittent anoxic episodes, asso- ciated with salinity-stratified water masses, occurred in the basin during the late Aptian to Albian. A maximum in oxygen depletion occurred during the late Aptian to earliest Albian, in middle neritic to upper bathyal set- tings. Waning dysaerobic to oxic conditions are appar- ent in the upper Albian succession. ‘The anoxic episodes are characterized by the following (2) The occurrence of organic-rich, dark-gray marls, and calcareous black shales, mainly composed of lipic: rich organic matter (TOC between 2 and 12%, high hydrogen and low oxygen indices). (2) Features in the biological marker distribution, such as high concentrations of the regular C3; iso- prenoid alkane, squalane, beta-carotane, and gammac- erane, and predominance of phytane over pristane linked with an even over odd n-alkane preference (3) A microfossil record with an impoverished, low- diversity, benthic microfauna, with limited intraspecific variations. Low-diversity and poor agglutinated assem- blages became progressively dominant (c. 20=100% in, the late Aptian to middle Albian) with decreasing levels, of oxygen. During episodes of maximum oxygen deple- tion, the calcareous assemblages were further reduced to none or only a few specimens of alabaminids and. coiled vaginulinids. Anoxic bottom conditions were marked by the absence of benthic microfauna. The exis- tence of rich and diverse planktonic foraminiferal assemblages of globular-chambered specimens throughout the upper Aptian-Albian succession sug- gests Widespread oxygenated epipelagic layers in the basin The foraminiferal assemblages recovered from the upper Aptian marine deposits have a characteristic Tethyan affinity. The evidence suggests that this area of the northern South Atlantic had at least some surface water exchange with low-latitude central North Atlantic-western Tethyan Provinces at that time, even possibly at epipelagic to mesopelagic water depths. Contributions of microfaunal elements from high lati- tude regions (Boreal and/or Austral Realms) are also apparent, although of minor significance.