Sedimentary Characteristics of The Albian Successions in The Qardaha Sheet – Coastal Chain – Syria

Abstract

This study investigates the sedimentary facies and stratigraphic evolution of the Albian successions in the Qardaha sheet (Coastal Chain – Syria), through the analysis of Al-Bour and Al-Qatlabah sections. The results indicate that the basin evolved within a carbonate ramp system subjected to a major transgressive-regressive cycle. A hiatus was recorded at the base of the Al-Qatlabah section, spanning parts of the Aptian and Lower Albian, reflecting paleo-tectonic uplift conditions.These conditions led to the deposition of

 a phosphatic condensed section characterized by the presence of autochthonous glauconite and hematite grains resulting from a severe reduction in sedimentation rates. With continued marine transgression, the Al-Qatlabah area transitioned into a state of tectonic subsidence, allowing for the accumulation of thick micritic successions. This was followed by a Highstand Systems Tract (HST), resulting in basin shallowing and the infilling of accommodation space. This stage was dominated by high-energy facies, including non-rudist bivalve barriers in Al-Bour and the rudist biostromes in Al-Qatlabah, marking the final basin infilling prior to the Cenomanian