Microbial characteristics of low-amplitude structures and prediction of favorable target areas in Xinhe area, Tarim Basin

The Microbial Prospecting for Oil and Gas (MPOG) is an exploration method based on the seepage of light gaseous hydrocarbons from oil/gas reservoirs to the surface and their utilization by hydrocarbon oxidizing bacteria. By studying the abnormal characteristics of oil and gas microorganisms in Xinhe area of the Tarim Basin, this project provides a solid scientific basis for oil and gas prediction and the validation and application of oil and gas microbial exploration technology in this area. Soil samples were collected to investigate prospects for hydrocarbon exploration. The amount of cultivable soil microorganisms in different soil samples were analyzed using the agar plating method. High-throughput sequencing has been used directly to study the composition of microbial population in soil samples. Based on the data from Xinhe area, an abnormal pattern of oil and gas microorganisms has been established. By using this pattern, five abnormal microbial areas were identified in the Xinhe and Sandaoqiao area. Combined with the results of structural traps and the abnormal number of hydrocarbon microorganisms, five potential favorable exploration target areas were identified.