Sequence stratigraphy of the syn-rift miocene succession in the Abu Rudeis-Sidri Field, Gulf of Suez, Egypt

Abstract

Abstract The syn-rift Miocene succession of the Gulf of Suez remains poorly constrained, with persistent uncertainties in rift initiation timing, paleoenvironmental reconstruction, and the interplay between tectonics and eustasy—factors that complicate stratigraphic correlation and hydrocarbon exploration. This study aims to refine the chronostratigraphic framework, reconstruct depositional environments, and develop a detailed sequence stratigraphic model for the Abu Rudeis–Sidri Field in the east-central Gulf of Suez through integration of high-resolution foraminiferal biostratigraphy, wireline logs, and seismic data from four wells (ARM-7, ARS-6, SIDRI-20, SIDRI-9). Planktonic and benthic foraminifera constrain the succession to the early Burdigalian–early Langhian, encompassing the Globigerinoides altiaperturus–Catapsydrax dissimilis , Trilobatus trilobus , and Praeorbulina glomerosa zones. Ten benthic biofacies define paleodepths from inner shelf (< 50 m) to upper slope (> 150 m), enabling reconstruction of depositional environments and relative sea-level trends. Four third-order depositional sequences (SQ1–SQ4) are recognized, bounded by regionally mappable sequence boundaries and maximum flooding surfaces. Stacking patterns reveal deepening from SQ1 to SQ3 followed by shoaling and lagoonal restriction in SQ4. Tectonic subsidence and block tilting exerted primary control on accommodation, whereas eustatic influence is expressed mainly at flooding surfaces. Correlation with regional and global sea-level curves shows partial alignment with Burdigalian–Langhian cycles, underscoring the dominance of local tectonics. This refined framework enhances understanding of syn-rift sedimentation and provides predictive insights for hydrocarbon exploration in rift-related basins.