Lithostratigraphy and lithofacies analysis of the Fahliyan/Garau formations in the Persian Gulf with an application in petroleum system modelling

The Lower Cretaceous Fahliyan Formation is one of important hydrocarbon reservoirs in the Persian Gulf and neighboring Arabian countries. Lithologically, this formation is mainly composed of limestone, argillaceous limestone and dolomite. Three major units have been recognized in the Fahliyan Formation (i.e. Lower, Middle and Upper Fahliyan) which are respectively equivalent to the Sulaiy, Yamama and Ratawi formations in the Arabian countries of southern Persian Gulf. To the northwest of Persian Gulf the Fahliyan Formation interfingers with the Garau Formation. The Fahliyan Formation is considered as time equivalent to some part of the Garau Formation, and is recognized as a source rocks in northwestern part of the Persian Gulf. Analysis of available geology and petrophysical data of the key wells penetrated through the Fahliyan and its equivalent Garau formations led to the recognition of 21 facies that were deposited in three sub-environments (belts): inner, middle and outer carbonate platform and also an intrashelf settings. The observed lithofacies pattern in the study area indicate a homoclinal carbonate ramp as the depositional environment for the Fahliyan Formation. Based on the recognized facies within the Fahliyan Formation the spatial distribution pattern of reservoir, source and seal rocks are presented in all the stratigraphic units in order to use a more accurate facies map for the petroleum system modelling.