Turbidite

Turbidite geological formations have their origins in turbidity current deposits, deposits from a form of underwater avalanche that are responsible for distributing vast amounts of clastic sediment into the deep ocean. Lithified accumulations of these deposits may, in time, become hydrocarbon reservoirs and the oil industry makes strenuous efforts to predict the location, overall shape and internal character of these sediment bodies.

Turbidite deposits typically occur in foreland basins. Best outcrop expositions are found in Apennines(Italy), Pyrenees (Spain), Ocidental Alps (France).

Turbidites are characterized by graded bedding, current ripple marks, alternating sequences with pelagic sediments, distinct fauna between the turbidite and native pelagic sediments, sole markings, thick sequences, regular bedding, and an absence of shallow-water features. [1]

Reference

1. Rhodes W. Fairbridge, ed., The Encyclopedia of Oceanography, (New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, 1966), pp945-946.

See also: Turbidite, Avalanche, Bedding, Clastic, Current, Fauna, Geology, Hydrocarbon