Distribution features and exploration potential of oil and gas in a deepwater area of the Gulf of Mexico Basin

The hydrocarbon exploration conditions and geologic features of the Gulf of Mexico Basin were studied, and the formation, evolution and distribution of salt deposits which were closely related to the reservoirs were analyzed. From the Oxfordian Stage of the Upper Jurassic to the Pleistocene Series of the Quaternary, four sets of excellent hydrocarbon source rocks and various favorable reservoirs developed. Effective sealing formations were widespread in the Cenozoic. Faults provided pathways for hydrocarbon migration. Structural and stratigraphic traps were common. All these contributed to the generation and preservation of hydrocarbon. Thick salt deposits were widespread in the Middle Jurassic of the basin, which had a close relationship with giant oil and gas pools. Major discoveries have been made in both pre-salt and post-salt formations. As petroleum exploration theory and technique advanced, the pre-salt formations in the deepwater area of the basin attracted more attention and showed good potential.