Reconstructing the depositional regime in the northern Cape Basin
The Northern Hemisphere Glaciation modified the global current system leading also to changes in the local current situation in the Cape Basin. This interaction of climate and oceanic currents left a significant imprint in the sedimentary structures along the continental margin off southwestern Africa. Additionally, tectonic movements shaped the sedimentary sequences. To gain an understanding about the influence of the different factors on the build up and composition of the sedimentary layers in the Cape Basin the (a) spatial distribution of seismostratigraphic units (event horizons), (b) physical and chemical properties of sediments at event horizons, and (c) climate information of the hinterland need to be extracted from seismic profiles and sedimentological parameters. The combination of reflection seismic records with drill site information assisted by palynological data will provide a comprehensive information of the sedimentary regime in the Cape Basin and elucidates the effect of the Initiation of the Northern Hemisphere Glaciation on the depositional environment of a basin located far away in the South.
Helmholtz Research Programs > MARCOPOLI (2004-2008) > MAR2-Palaeo Climate Mechanisms and Variability