Facies and diagenetic evolution of the Bathonian-Oxfordian mixed siliciclastic-carbonate sediments of the Habo Dome, Kachchh Basin, India

Abstract

This paper examines the depositional environment and diagenetic aspects of the exposed Patcham and Chari formation within the Habo Dome. The Patcham Formation is represented by the Black Limestone Member. The Chari Formation is represented by two distinct sedimentary successions: (i) shale and carbonates, and (ii) coarse clastics. The paper describes eleven lithofacies from these successions. The depositional framework constituents of these facies have been greatly modified by diagenetic evolution through time. Two main depositional environments, i.e. foreshore intertidal and shoreface (subtidal), have dominated during their deposition. The diagenetic signatures observed within these sediments suggest early or syndepositional changes in marine phreatic and burial environments. Two phases of early mechanical compaction have largely governed porosity evolution within the limestone facies. Micritization of the allochems was caused by endolithic algae prevalent within the restricted lagoon environments with stagnant marine phreatic zone conditions. Random dissolution of microcrystalline grains has created vugs with patchy distribution reflecting neomorphism within the meteoric vadose zone. The types of cements within the sandstone facies include silica, calcite, and its replacement by Fe-calcite cement. The sandstones were deposited in a relatively low energy environment below storm wave base. The depositional conditions have controlled the early diagenesis of the sandstones which in turn have influenced their burial diagenesis.