Structural-stratigraphic control in the distribution of gas hydrate and free-gas at the Umitaka anticline, Joetsu Basin, eastern margin of the Japan Sea
Keywords:
gas chimney, gas hydrates, Japan Sea, Joetsu Basin, methane seeps, single channel seismic, Umitaka SpurAbstract
Since 2004, integrated geological, geochemical, and geophysical exploration has identified a massive accumulation of gas hydrate associated with active methane seeps on the Umitaka Spur, located in the Joetsu Basin on the eastern margin of the Japan Sea. The Umitaka Spur is an asymmetric anticline formed along an incipient subduction zone that extends throughout the western side of the Japanese island-arc system. Seismic surveys recognized chimney structures that seem strongly controlled by a complex anticlinal axial fault system, and exhibit high seismic amplitudes with apparent pull-up structures, probably due to massive and dense accumulation of gas hydrate. Bottom-simulating reflectors are widely developed, in particular within gas chimneys and in the gently dipping eastern flank of the anticline, where it may represent a trap for unconvencional gas below. In this flank, within the gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ), debris deposits can store gas hydrates and may represent potential natural gas hydrate reservoirs. The axial fault system, the convex shape of the anticline, and the carrier-beds induce thermogenic gas migration to the top of the structure, supplying gas to the GHSZ and providing strong seepages and giant plumes in the sea water column.
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