Siliciclastic Sequence Stratigraphy in Well Logs, Cores, and Outcrops

Application of sequence-stratigraphic analysis depends on the recognition of a hierarchy of stratal units including beds, bedsets, parasequences, parasequence sets, and sequences bounded by chronostratigraphically significant surfaces of erosion, nondeposition, or their correlative surfaces. This method of stratigraphic analysis contrasts with the use of transgressive and regressive cycles of strata for regional correlation of time and facies. Transgressive and regressive cycles have been used for regional correlation for at least 50 years. Recently, proponents of transgressive and regressive cycles, referred to as T-R units, for regional correlation have included Ryer (1983), Busch and Rollins (1984), Busch et al. (1985), and Galloway (1989a). Galloway (1989a) introduced the “genetic stratigraphic sequence,” which is a regressive depositional unit bounded by transgressive surfaces. Although he did not define it specifically, he described it as “a package of sediments recording a significant episode of basin-margin outbuilding and basin filling, bounded by periods of widespread basin margin flooding.”