Petroleum distribution rules and controlling factor analysis of Gulf of Mexico Basin

The Gulf of Mexico Basin is a composite basin with passive continental margins superimposing on rift basin. The basin has experienced 3 evolution stages. Based on the research of basin formation and evolution, the distribution rules of oil and gas were analyzed. Oil and gas mainly developed during the passive margin period. There are 5 sets of oil and gas plays including the conventional and unconventional petroleum. The 3 main conventional oil and gas plays are located following seaward direction, which include the Jurassic-Cretaceous play, the Paleogene play and the Neogene play, from onshore to offshore. The main controlling factors are progradation, salt and sand distribution. The 2 unconventional oil and gas plays include the Eagle ford and the Haynesvill-bossier shale belt, both locating onshore. The main controlling factors are organic matter abundance and thermal evolution.