The Quaternary record and its value for sequence stratigraphy

ABSTRACT

Quaternary sequence stratigraphy, supported by an exceptional abundance of proxy data and well-constrained boundary conditions, provides an unprecedented opportunity to bridge the gap between quantified modern processes and the interpretation of the ancient sedimentary record. High-resolution subsurface data sets capture the complex interplay between sea-level changes and tectonic activity at subseismic scales, with temporal resolutions rarely achievable in older strata, revealing a largely unexplored hierarchy of hiatal surfaces and condensed intervals spanning 102- to 104-yr timescales within stratigraphic successions generally assumed to be continuous. Quaternary sequence stratigraphy not only provides a robust chronostratigraphic framework to serve as the basis for paleogeographic maps, but also delivers accurate three-dimensional reconstructions of shallow-subsurface stratigraphic architecture. Beyond its traditional applications in hydrocarbon exploration, Quaternary data sets support a wide range of practical applications, including carbon capture and storage site selection, groundwater reservoir characterization, reconstruction of contaminant migration pathways, seismic-hazard assessment, and infrastructure development, demonstrating their relevance for both geoscience research and societal challenges.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Graphical abstract titled Four panels. Panel A is labeled Alluvial plain. The vertical axis ranges from 0 meters to about 100 meters. Several channel shaped sediment bodies occur within layered deposits. The channels are labeled M I S 2, M I S 6, M I S 8, and M I S 5e. Groundwater emerges at the surface. Panel B is also labeled Alluvial plain. The vertical axis ranges from 0 meters to about 40 meters. A gas pump is shown on the ground surface above an incised channel. A vehicle appears beside an excavation that exposes layered deposits. The label M I S 3 slash 2 paleosol appears below the surface. Panel C is labeled Coastal plain. The vertical axis ranges from 0 meters to about 40 meters. A channel shaped depression is filled with sediment. The labels T S T, F S S T, and L S T appear within the section. Wavy vertical lines rise from below the surface and are labeled seismic waves. Panel D is labeled Shelf. The vertical axis extends from 0 meters at the top to 70 meters at the bottom. A sloping sediment body on the left contains the label H S T. Three wind turbines stand on the shelf surface near the center. A thin horizontal layer extends across the section below the water surface. An arrow points to this layer and labels it Condensed section. On the right, layered sediment units overlie bedrock. The upper unit is labeled T S T. The lower unit is labeled L S T. A fish appears in the water near the upper right corner.