| Affiliation: | (1) Institut für Geophysik, Universität Hamburg, Bundesstraße 55, 20146 Hamburg, Germany;(2) GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany |
| Abstract: | The distribution of gas and gas hydrate within the central Yaquina Basin, a forearc basin at the Peru convergent margin, can be estimated from the interpretation of high-resolution reflection seismic data. The strongest bottom simulating reflector (BSR) is observed where the base of gas hydrate stability (BGHS) parallels strata. Where the BGHS crosscuts strata, only a small amount of gas is present beneath the BGHS. Anisotropic permeability plays a key role in controlling methane supply. Where present-day tectonic activity is observed, faults and, consequently, gas reach up to the seafloor where chemoherms formed. The warm fluids contort the BGHS and, consequently, the BSR is shifted upward. Increased heat flux and/or sediment interval velocity in this region is likely. Bright spots align beneath the actual BGHS and mark the depth of a paleo-BSR, which can be correlated with sedimentation of a particular sequence. There is clear evidence for free gas being present within the gas hydrate stability zone. |
