New Insights in the Architecture of Northeastern Maracaibo Basin

The architecture of Northeastern Maracaibo Basin (Venezuela) is associated to several stages of a plate tectonic cycle. Recent seismic interpretations allow postulating a new structural model assuming different morphologies formed in a variety of tectonic settings which could be differentiated in at least three domains in the study area. From north to south, the first domain is related to basement normal faults reactivated by compressional/transpressional deformation. This system is linked to thick-skinned fault-ramp folds affecting Tertiary sedimentary pile, with a detachment level within the Upper Cretaceous as a result of the compressive events during Early Eocene and Miocene. A second shale tectonics domain is interpreted with at least two phases of deformation identified: lateral expulsion to shale due to differential loading generating listric faulting and later shale upwelling related to inversion episodes. Finally the proposed third domain is characterized by deeper thrust and back thrusting deforming the sedimentary pile as the result of regional uplifting of Trujillo Serrania toward the southeast. This study allows increase the understanding of the petroleum systems in the area adding new migration paths, variation in trap styles and favorable distinct timing for hydrocarbon accumulation improving the chance to predict potential new plays.<br>