Salt Tectonics, and Depositional Dynamics of Jurassic Carbonate Platform (Essaouira and Agadir Offshore Basin, Morocco)

Summary The Essaouira and Agadir Offshore segments of Morocco’s Atlantic margin showcase distinct structural and sedimentological characteristics that significantly shaped the Jurassic carbonate platform, offering insights into hydrocarbon exploration. This study investigates the structural and sedimentological evolution during the Jurassic, focusing on salt tectonics influence on sedimentation and structural variability. In Essaouira, Triassic-Lias rifting led to fault development of NNE-SSW trending normal faults and E-W transcurrent faults, creating segmented carbonate platform. Salt tectonics contributed to the formation of diapirs, salt domes, and mini-basins, enhancing hydrocarbon traps. Atlasic compression during the Cenozoic reactivated these faults, further shaping structural traps. In contrast, Agadir’s hyper-extensional rifting and stable subsidence favored continuous salt canopies and robust carbonate deposition in deep-water settings. Seismic facies analysis reveals in Essaouira Offshore segment a transition from well-stratified landward carbonate platform to deep-water marine shales, potential source rocks, and seals. Agadir’s platform exhibited high-energy carbonate facies, enhancing hydrocarbon reservoir potential through high porosity and permeability. The combined structural and sedimentological features underscore the Jurassic carbonate platforms exploration potential systems along Morocco’s Atlantic margin.