Stratigraphic evolution of a Cretaceous deep-water gravity-driven system on a strike-slip setting in the Ceara Basin, Brazilian Equatorial Margin

This study focuses on the Ceará Basin, located in a tectonic transition zone between divergent and transform margins. Using a 3D PSDM seismic, 2D seismic, and logs from 29 wells, we investigated the morphology and stratigraphic evolution of Cretaceous gravity-driven deposits. A major Albian–Cenomanian canyon was identified, initially straight and later meandering, confined by a structural high linked to an antithetic fault. Stratigraphic analysis revealed vertically stacked sandstones overlying mudstones, transitioning to mud-rich infill from the Turonian. Seismic geomorphology and RMS amplitude attributes indicate sediment input shifting related to fault reactivation. The results provide insight into how transform-related structures influence sediment dispersal patterns from the platform to deep waters, with the implications for hydrocarbon exploration in complex tectonic settings like the BEM.