Journal of Petroleum Geology Archimer

July 2003 ; Vol. 26 (3) : Pages 283-306

http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-5457.2003.tb00031.x
http://archimer.ifremer.fr
© 2003 Scientific Press Ltd.

Controls on the distribution of nummulite facies: a case study from the

late ypresian el garia formation (Kesra Plateau, Central Tunisia)
1, * 1 2
S. Jorry , E. Davaud and B. Caline

1
University of Geneva, Section of Earth Sciences, Department of Geology and Palaeontology, 13 rue des
Maraîchers, 1205 Geneva 4, Switzerland.
2
Total Exploration Production, CSTJF, Avenue Larribau, 64000 Pau, France

*: Corresponding author : S. Jorry, email address : [email protected]

Abstract:

Eocene nummulite deposits along the southern Tethys margin locally constitute important hydrocarbon
reservoir rocks. In order to understand the heterogeneity of these complex reservoirs, we have carried
out a detailed field study of the nummulite limestones which crop out at the Kesra Plateau in Central
Tunisia. The main contributions of this paper can be summarised as follows:

1. Various species of Nummulites and planktonic foraminifera were identified in late Ypresian
carbonates in the Kesra area and provided accurate biostratigraphic ages. Nummulitic limestones
occur in the Chouabine and El Garia Formations representing deposition over a period of about 2Ma.

2. Six depositional facies have been identified in the El Garia Formation, ranging from high-energy
nummulitic grainstones to laterally-equivalent lower-energy nummulithoclastic accumulations.
Variations in nummulite morphology (size and shape) have been used to distinguish a number of
subfacies which correspond to different depositional environments. We provide evidence that
nummulite accumulations were locally sub-aerially exposed.

3. A 3D reconstruction of the Kesra Plateau outcrop identified two stacked nummulite bodies,
deposited under high-energy conditions, which pass laterally into two isolated bodies in more distal
parts of the platform.

4. Regional-scale observations indicate that the geometry of the Late Ypresian nummulite platform
was strongly influenced by the presence of the Oued Bahloul anticline structure, which formed a major
environmental barrier between open-marine and more restricted settings. Facies distribution in the
Kesra area was strongly controlled by the inherited topography, which reflects the reactivation of NW-
SE trending faults during the Late Cretaceous and Palaeocene.

5. A tentative 3D facies model illustrates the relationship between facies and fault distributions in the
Kesra area. The facies map shows that the best reservoir potential is associated with palaeo-highs,
and consists of nummulite limestones deposited in very shallow waters (a few metres) under high-
energy conditions.

1
Introduction

Along the southern Tethys margin, an Early Eocene nummulite platform covered the area
between Central Tunisia and the Gulf of Gabès (Bishop, 1988; Zaïer et al., 1998). This
platform generated significant volumes of sediments mainly comprising nummulites and
siltgrade nummulithoclastic debris. In Tunisia and Libya, significant oil production comes
from nummulite limestone reservoirs, for example at the giant Bourri field offshore NW Libya
which has reserves of 1,000-3,000MM brl oil (Racey et al., 2001). Previous studies have
shown that producing nummulitic reservoirs are located preferentially on structural highs –
e.g. at Bourri and Al Jurf offshore Libya; at Sidi el Itayem onshore Tunisia (Hasler et al., in
press); and at Ashtart (Loucks et al., 1998) and Hasdrubal (Racey et al., 2001) offshore
Tunisia.
Understanding the relationship between palaeo-topography, syn-sedimentary deformation,
and “in-situ” production and preservation of nummulitic sediments depends on studies of
carefully-selected outcrop analogues. Vennin et al. (2003) studied Ypresian nummulitic
carbonates at outcrop some 25 km away at Djebel Ousselat, elaborating a three-dimensional
high resolution sequence stratigraphic model for Ypresian nummulitic reservoirs. In the
present paper, we present some of the results of a recent outcrop study which focussed on
the Kesra Plateau of Central Tunisia, an area which constituted a structural high during the
Early Eocene (Jauzein, 1967). Continuous, well-exposed outcrops here allowed nummulite
facies to be mapped in detail and nummulite bodies to be delineated in terms of stratigraphic
architecture, geometry and internal heterogeneity. We were able to study vertical and lateral
facies distributions on the scale of a subsurface reservoir (6km x 8km). This study is intended
to contribute to improved reservoir prediction in the Libyan offshore, and in particular to the
C137 licence area operated by Total.
The depositional environment of nummulite accumulations is often difficult to interpret
because nummulite palaeoecology is poorly understood (see Racey, 2001 for a recent
review).

2
Present-day settings can rarely be used as analogues and no comparable deposits in modern
environments have been documented. Another difficulty derives from the rarity of high-
energy depositional structures in these grain-supported sedimentary rocks. Several authors
have suggested that post-depositional bioturbation may significantly modify original fabrics
(Loucks et al., 1998; Racey, 2001). In the Kesra area, the absence of red algae associated with
the nummulites also makes the interpretation of depositional environments somewhat
problematic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Kesra Plateau is located in Central Tunisia (Fig. 1), close to the Kef el Garia outcrop
locality where the stratotype of the Early Eocene El Garia Formation is exposed (Fournié,
1978). Twenty-four field sections were examined at Kesra, and 13 additional sections were
detailed nearby. Biostratigraphic data were based on the identification of planktonic
foraminifera and nummulites. Some 240 thin sections were analysed in order to interpret
carbonate textures, faunal contents and diagenetic features (porosity, cementation, dissolution,
compaction). The study of diagenetic events was complemented by cathodo-luminescence and
fluid inclusions analyses.
Correlations between field sections relied on the identification of major stratigraphic
boundaries, and the establishment of a 2D stratigraphic architecture from outcrop studies. 3D
visualisation of the correlated profiles was based on the integration of data from logged
stratigraphic sections, 2D outcrops and subsequent 3D modelling.

GEOLOGICAL SETTING

In Tunisia, the Early Eocene El Garia Formation is part of the Metlaoui Group (Fig. 2), whose
regional stratigraphy has been studied by Fournié (1975, 1978), Bishop (1985, 1988), Moody
(1987), Moody et al. (1989) and Dridi et al. (1991). At the base of the Group are the
phosphate-rich limestones of the Chouabine Formation. Overlying are time-equivalent units
of Ypresian age comprising the Faid Formation (a continental facies with evaporites); the Ain
Merhotta Formation (lagoonal gastropod-rich carbonates); the El Garia Formation
(nummulitic limestones); and the basinal Bou Dabbous Formation (lime mudstones). The
Ousselat Member (Moody et al., 1989) represents nummulithoclastic accumulations in the El
Garia Formation.

3
Based on outcrop studies in Central and offshore Tunisia, Loucks et al. (1998) proposed a
general facies model for the Metlaoui Group which envisages a homoclinal ramp with no
sharp breaks in slope. El Garia nummulitic accumulations were deposited in a mid-ramp
setting under low-energy and low-light conditions. These authors did not recognise subfacies
divisions within the nummulitic accumulations.

Lithostratigraphy of outcropping rocks

In the Kesra area, five formations were recognised at outcrop (Fig. 3):
(i) At the base is the Campanian Aleg Formation characterised by greenish shales
interbedded with thin limestones. The upper part of the formation is strongly deformed by
normal faults and slumps.
(ii). These shale gradually pass upward into the lime mudstones of the Maastrichtian Abiod
Formation. In the study area, the top of this formation is characterised by a well-developed
semi-lithified hardground containing borings and burrows locally infilled by glauconite and
phosphate pebbles. This surface represents a major angular unconformity on top of which
rests the late Ypresian succession.
(iii) The Chouabine Formation forms the base of the cliffs delimiting the Kesra Plateau and
can be divided into two units:
At its base, glauconite marls form a ledge in the outcropping topography. They are strongly
bioturbated and contain abundant iron oxide concretions. This unit has been dated by R.
Wernli (Geneva University) on the basis of planktonic foraminifera. The following species
were identified: Morozovella subbotinae, Morozovella aragonensis, Morozovella formosa
formosa, Morozovella aff. caucasica, Morozovella lensiformis, Morozovella quetra,
Acarinina primitiva, Acarinina pentacamerata, Acarinina broedermami, Turborotalia aff.
frontosa, Globigerina linaperta, Globigerina inaequispira. Other small benthic foraminifera
includeFrondicularia, Marginulina, Lenticulina, Nodosaria, Textulariidae and Cyclammina.
This faunal association gives a late Ypresian age which corresponds to the P8 biozone of
Serra-Kiel et al. (1998). Other planktonic foraminifera (e.g. Morozovella angulata) indicate
the reworking of P3-P4 planktonic biozones within the P8 biozone. This species has also been
described in Palaeocene strata in Algeria near the Tebessa Mountains (Faid, 1995).
The marly unit is overlain by bioclastic limestones which show characteristic undulating
bedding surfaces, at the base of which are concentrations of phosphatic granules (centimetre
size). Above are massive beds (20-30cm thick) of bioclastic wackestones containing
phosphatic nodules, small gastropods, small bivalves, rare small nummulites and well-

4
preserved nautiloids. The abundance and size of the nautiloids increases toward the eastern
part of the Plateau, where their diameter may reach more than 30cm. Shells are often
unbroken and are present in concentration of up to 6/sq.m. The top of this unit is marked by a
bioturbated horizon with burrows similar to Thalassinoides type. Bioturbated structures are
infilled by nummulites.
(iv) The nautiloid limestones of the Chouabine Formation pass up abruptly to the El Garia
Formation which shows marked lateral facies variations; from west to east, nummulite
grainstones/packstones pass gradually into nummulithoclast dominated deposits (Ousselat
Member).
Some 180 samples of Nummulites were collected from the top of the formation. They were
identified by A. Blondeau and P. Masse (Total Exploration Production) with reference to the
Elf collection for the Libyan Jdeir Formation (Nummulites identified by J. Tosquella and A.
Blondeau), and to the collection of A. Blondeau (Blondeau, 1972) stored at the Museum
d’Histoire Naturelle (Geneva). Identifications also made reference to Schaub (1981). Six
species of Nummulites were recognised from a single stratigraphic unit at different sampling
locations (Fig. 4):
Nummulites perplexus SCHAUB, 1981;
Nummulites formosus DE LA HARPE, 1883 (Nummulites «operculiniforme»);
Nummulites cf. pomeli FISCHEUR, 1890;
Nummulites aff. pomeli FISCHEUR, 1890;
Nummulites rollandi (evoluted / caillaudi D’ARCHIAC & HAIME, 1853);
Nummulites tenuilamellatus FISCHEUR, 1890.
This nummulite association corresponds to the boundary between the late Ypresian and the
early Lutetian (Blondeau, pers. comm.).
At Kesra, we noted the occurrence of four species within the same bed (N. rollandi, N. aff.
rollandi, N. perplexus, N. tenuilamellatus). N. perplexus was found at the top of the El Garia
Formation at the Kesra, Kef el Garia and Kef Mergueb locations. The microspheric B-form is
a lenticular to discoid nummulite with a regular whorl whose thickness may reach 0.8cm.
Twenty-five turns are observable for a radius of about 5mm. Meandering sutures were
observed on the surface of the test. The regular, narrow whorls (from first to last turns) and
the thickness (0.4 to 0.85mm: Schaub, 1981) of N. perplexus distinguish this species from N.
pomeli, N. tenuilamellatus and N. rollandi which have thinner tests (<0.4mm) and are
characterised by more and narrower whorls in the last turns.

5
(v) The El Garia Formation limestones are locally capped by yellowish marls interbedded
with massive oyster accumulations belonging to the Lutetian Souar Formation (Fournié,
1978). This formation is only exposed in the centre of the Kesra Plateau and near the village
of El Garia (Fig.1).

ANALYSIS OF DEPOSITIONAL FACIES IN THE EL GARIA FORMATION

Based on outcrop observations, the study of 24 field sections and the petrographic analysis of
420 thin sections, six principal facies within the El Garia Formation have been distinguished.
As precise nummulite morphology could not be determined in the field or in thin section, we
use morphological criteria such as nummulite size (large or small) and shape (flat or robust).
This scheme permitted facies descriptions from 1D sections and provided a basis for 2D
outcrop mapping (Table 1). In general, vertical transitions between the different nummulite
facies were abrupt. The six facies were as follows:
i. Facies 1: Large robust nummulite packstone. In this facies, large B-form nummulites
are associated with large bivalves in life position; other nummulite morphologies
(small robust and large flat) are well represented and large gastropods are rare. The
matrix contains a high proportion of nummulithoclasts, echinoderm debris and rare
scaphopods. The presence of nummulithoclasts together with mixed, randomly
orientated A- and B-form nummulites and large bivalves in life position strongly
suggests that this facies constitutes an autochthonous or para-autochthonous deposit.
The Nummulites-gastropod association indicates the proximity of relatively restricted
settings (Moody, 1987).
ii. Facies 2: Small robust nummulite grainstone/packstone. Small nummulites are
dominant and are occasionally associated with serpulid bioconstructions and debris,
bivalves and gastropods, flat nummulites, and echinoderm and scaphopod fragments.
This facies provides evidence of granulometric sorting, as small robust nummulites are
common. By comparison with modern environments, the presence of serpulid
bioconstructions suggests very shallow water deposition (Fornós et al., 1997).
iii. Facies 3: Large flat nummulite grainstone/packstone. This facies has a poor associated
microfauna but contains echinoderm fragments. Grainstones are characterised by
imbricated, large, flat nummulites and an absence of nummulite debris in the matrix
(Fig. 5). The facies is well sorted and is characterized by large-scale cross-bedding
which indicates high-energy depositional conditions.

6
 iv. Facies 4: Small flat nummulite packstone. Nummulites are associated with
Discocyclina, Operculina, echinoderm debris, scaphopod fragments and uncommon
small benthic foraminifera such as Cibicididae, Textulariidae and Lenticulina. The
occurrence of thin Discocyclina, Operculina and small benthic foraminifera such as
Lenticulina indicates proximity to open-marine conditions. The matrix contains
significant nummulithoclast particles and mud.
v. Facies 5: Operculina and nummulithoclastic packstone. Operculina are associated
with common small benthic foraminifera (Bolivina, Cibicididae, Textulariidae,
Lenticulina), small nummulites and common echinoderm fragments. The matrix
contains a high proportion of nummulithoclastic debris. This facies forms thick, easily
eroded beds which are easily recognized at outcrop and which form a good visual
marker for outcrop correlation. Based on previous studies in Tunisia (Loucks et al.,
1998; Racey et al., 2001), in Libya (Arni, 1965), in Spain (Eichenseer et al., 1992) and
in Yugoslavia (Bignot, 1972), Operculina facies characterises a deeper-water
depositional environment than nummulite facies. However, in modern environments,
the foraminifera Operculina can occur with thin nummulites in deep-water
environments (Hohenegger et al., 2000).
vi. Facies 6: Nummulithoclastic packstone (Ousselat Member, sensu Moody et al., 1989).
This facies contains abundant small benthic foraminifera, abundant echinoderm
fragments and some planktonic foraminifera. The matrix is dominantly composed of
silt-sized nummulite debris, occasionally rich in organic matter and silicified material
(silica nodules or silicified bioturbated horizons). This facies, locally massive and
undisturbed, is generally laminated which (together with the planktonic foraminifera)
suggests the deep-water deposition of material reworked from the shallow-water
nummulite platform.

Construction of a facies model

A general proximal-to-distal trend based on palaeogeographic data (Bishop, 1988; Zaïer et al.,
1998) has been established for the El Garia Formation and ranges from nummulite-dominated
deposits to nummulithoclast accumulations. Three different facies models have in the past
been proposed for the El Garia Formation. Nummulite deposits have been interpreted as bank
structures (Moody, 1987; Moody et al., 1989), as low-angle ramp accumulations (Conte et al.,
1974; Loucks et al., 1998), or as shoal complexes deposited in mid-ramp settings (Racey et
al., 2001). All these models indicate that the depositional environments were probably highly

7
variables in terms of carbonate production and sedimentary processes. A general model cannot
therefore be applied for interpreting nummulite deposition throughout the entire El Garia
facies belt.
In order to establish a facies model for the El Garia Formation outcropping in the Kesra area,
we used a method proposed by Walker (1984) and derived from Walther's law (Walther, 1894;
Middleton, 1973), based on the most frequent observed stratigraphic facies transitions. This
allowed us to define the lateral distribution of depositional environments and stratigraphic
sequences and their development through time as a result of transgressions and regressions.
This method is useful in studies of biofacies patterns in the rock record (Harper, 1984),
especially where no recent counterparts or models are available. Applying this method to the
facies recognised in the Kesra Plateau (Fig. 6), we devised a theoretical shallowing-up
succession from Facies 6 (nummulithoclastic packstone) to Facies 1 (large robust nummulite
packstone) or 2 (small robust nummulite grainstones).
As suggested by previous authors (e.g. Arni, 1965; Conte et al., 1974; Moody et al., 1989;
Loucks et al., 1998; Racey et al., 2001; Vennin et al., 2003), this model indicates that
nummulithoclast bearing facies were deposited deeper than the nummulite grainstones (Fig.
6e). The small robust nummulite facies were deposited shallower than the large flat and small
flat nummulite facies, which may suggest that test flattening is correlated with increasing
depth. In present-day environments, this relationship has been demonstrated for foraminifera
such as Operculina ammonoides (Hottinger, 1973; Pecheux, 1995), Heterostegina depressa
(Hottinger, 1973), Amphisorus hemprichii and Parasorites orbitolitoides (Hohenegger et al.,
2000). In the western pacific, Hohenegger et al. (2000) suggested that thick nummulite tests
may provide a protection against irradiation and/or strong hydrodynamic regimes. This may
explain the proximal position of the large robust nummulite facies in the theoretical facies
model (Fig. 6e).
It is clear that silt-sized nummulithoclast deposits are produced by the reworking of
nummulite-rich facies from more proximal zones, but processes of fragmentation remain
enigmatic. The distribution of nummulite facies appears to be controlled by environmental
factors (salinity, temperature, light intensity), biological processes (reproductive strategy,
bioturbation) and hydrodynamic conditions. Thus, large flat nummulites, in which intra-
skeletal porosity may reach up to 40%, can easily be transported (Aigner, 1985; Racey, 2001)
and as a consequence the resulting deposits are allochthonous. At Kesra, metre-scale cross-
bedding structures in imbricated nummulite grainstones suggest reworking of nummulite-rich
sediment by high-energy currents.

8
STRATIGRAPHIC ARCHITECTURE

Major stratigraphic surfaces

Four major stratigraphic surfaces have been recognised in the succession studied at the Kesra
Plateau (Fig. 3). These surfaces were used as guidelines for correlation and 2D outcrop
mapping. The first surface is the hardground at the top of the Abiod Formation which is
overlain by late Ypresian marls containing reworked Palaeocene planktonic foraminifera (P3-
P4 biozones). This surface corresponds to a sedimentary hiatus lasting 14Ma, and clearly
shows evidence for a break in sedimentation accompanied by significant erosion before the
deposition of the nummulitic limestones. Uplift of the area during Palaeocene times could
explain this hiatus.
The second surface corresponds to the bioturbated interval at the top of the Chouabine
Formation and occurs below the nummulite-rich facies. The presence of a few small
nummulites within the nautiloid-rich Chouabine Formation suggests that nummulite carbonate
production was already occurring in Central Tunisia at this time. In the Kesra area, the abrupt
arrival of nummulitic limestones indicates a significant increase in sedimentation rate, which
is probably correlated with a major fall in relative sea level.
The third surface occurs between the top of the El Garia Formation and the overlying Souar
Formation and marks the late Ypresian - early Lutetian boundary. This surface represents the
maximum geographic extent of nummulites in the Kesra area and the maximum progradation
of nummulite-rich sediments toward the Bou Dabbous basin.
The final surface is located within the El Garia Formation and associated petrographic
features are illustrated in Fig. 7. The surface was recognised in four field sections in the
southern Kesra Plateau, and occurs within massive beds in which serpulids are occasionally
very abundant. Close to this boundary, abundant dissolved cavities (1-7mm) are visible at
outcrop. In thin sections, dissolved shell fragments (Fig. 7b), geotropic features with vadose
silt infillings and pendant cements beneath nummulites (Fig. 7c,d) were observed, features
which suggest sub-aerial exposure at this surface. Further evidence came from analyses of
fluid inclusions in primary generation of calcitic cements, which are localized in pendant
cements and in early syntaxial cements surrounding echinoderm fragments (Fig. 7e).
Homogenisation temperatures (Th) indicate temperatures of calcite precipitation of around
45°C. The presence of freshwater was indicated by the melting temperature of the inclusions
which was 0°C. These observations are consistent with local sub-aerial exposure of the

9
nummulite platform, which appears to have been restricted to the southern part of the Kesra
Plateau. This boundary evolves to an erosive marine surface toward the east.
This evidence of exposure within the El Garia Formation confirms several previous
depositional models for very shallow-water nummulite bodies (Arni, 1965; Moody et al.,
1989; Racey et al., 2001). For the Kesra area, the observation is consistent with Moody
(1987) who drew attention to emergent islets in nummulitic facies around Nasr Allah – Djebel
Cherahil.

2D stratigraphic architecture from outcrop studies

Four depositional sequences have been defined between these four stratigraphic surfaces. The
lowermost sequence (S1) is characterised by glauconitic marls and the nautiloid-rich unit of
the Chouabine Formation. The thickness of this shallowing-up sequence varies from 4m to
6m. It is bounded at its base by a hardground at the top of the Abiod Formation, and above by
a bioturbated interval.
The base of the second sequence (S2) (Fig. 8) is marked by the occurrence of the nummulites
and nummulithoclastic deposits of the El Garia Formation. The nummulite accumulations in
the western part of the Kesra Plateau are 10m thick and pass rapidly into nummulithoclast
facies (25m thick) to the east; this thickness variation possibly suggests continuous uplift and
erosion of the nummulite deposits. This lateral facies transition is gradational and intra-bed.
The S2 sequence in general shallows-up as indicated by the evidence at the top for local sub-
aerial exposure.
The base of the third sequence (S3) is characterised by the deposition of a thin argillaceous
limestone horizon (0.50m thick) which is only preserved in distal parts of the platform and
pinches out toward proximal locations (Fig. 8). The limestone is discontinuous and comprises
a planktonic foraminiferal wackestone, indicating deep-marine deposition (S3a). In proximal
areas, infillings of mouldic cavities (which result from sub-aerial exposure: Fig. 7) by
nummulithoclasts could be a possible lateral equivalent of this transgressive facies. Above,
sequence S3 passes up into a regressive succession (S3b), at the base of which are Operculina
packstones which are widespread in the study area, and are up to 4m thick in eastern
locations. The Operculina facies could be interpreted as a highstand deposit; they are overlain
by nummulite-bearing deposits prograding progressively toward the east. The first occurrence
of large robust nummulites associated with large bivalves and gastropods marks the final
stage of this shallowing-up sequence over the Kesra Plateau. The top of the sequence

10
corresponds to the maximum progradation of the late Ypresian nummulite platform in this
area.
The break in nummulite carbonate production recorded by sequence S3a may reflect a major
eustatic change, with important modifications to environmental factors such as water
turbidity, salinity and temperature. The Eocene was characterized by a major episode of
global warming expressed by a 1.50/00 decrease in δ18O which peaked during the Early Eocene
Climatic Optimum (EECO) at 52-50Ma (Kenneth et al., 1991; Zachos et al., 2001). This was
followed by a 17Ma trend towards cooler conditions. In the Kesra area, the maximum
stratigraphic extent of the nummulite species corresponds to the EECO.

3D modelling
The 3D reconstruction El Garia Formation carbonates (Fig. 9) integrates data from logged
stratigraphic sections and mapped 2D outcrops. The model indicates that sequence S1 does
not vary significantly in term of facies composition or thickness. Sequence S2 is characterised
by the deposition of nummulite facies in the west of the study area. The constant and uniform
extent of nummulite-bearing deposits at the beginning of the sequence suggests that several
nummulite bodies were stacked over each other without significant change of the
paleocoastline and have resulted in an aggradationnal geometry. The facies pass rapidly
eastwards into a facies dominated by nummulithoclasts. During the S3a transgressive phase,
argillaceous limestones were deposited in more distal parts of the platform, which previously
had been dominated by nummulithoclast accumulations. During this period, nummulite
deposits were absent or were transported towards the SW. To the east, nummulite facies
began to prograde at the beginning of sequence S3b and reached their maximum extent at the
end of this sequence.
In terms of reservoir potential, two isolated, stacked nummulite bodies can clearly be
identified (Fig. 9) in the SW of the study area. This area was therefore particularly suitable
for nummulite growth and development, and for the deposition of nummulite-bearing
sediments under high-energy conditions. A succession of storm events may have contributed
to the accumulation of thick nummulite shell debris. In the Kesra area, these nummulitic
bodies are affected by numerous joints, some of them are associated with pre-existing normal
faults. Laterally, the nummulite bodies pass into two isolated bodies in the eastern part of the
Plateau, where they interfinger with nummulithoclastic limestones of the Ousselat Member.

11
THE PALAEOGEOGRAPHY OF LATE YPRESIAN DEPOSITS IN THE KESRA-
MAKTAR AREA

Outcrops observations were extended to a regional scale in order to study the development of
the facies belt, and exposures between Kef el Garia and Maktar (Fig. 1) were investigated.
These field observations, combined with previous studies (Jauzein, 1967; Rigane, 1991), have
allowed us to reconstruct the palaeogeography of the late Ypresian deposits at the beginning
of nummulite deposition (Fig. 10).
The nummulite belt is approximately 10km wide and is bounded in the SW by the Oued
Bahloul palaeohigh where Lutetian limestones of the Souar Formation rest directly on Abiod
Formation limestones. Jauzein (1967) interpreted the top of the Abiod Formation to be
karstified. The thickness of the nummulite belt increases towards the NE from 5m near the
palaeo-high to 15m near Kesra village. This thickening could be explained by continuous
uplift and erosion of the area around the Oued Bahloul anticline (see below). To the NE,
geometry of the nummulithoclast facies belt of the Ousselat Member outlines a narrow gulf or
bay (or intra-platform basin) within the Operculina facies belt. Further to the NE, the
nummulithoclast facies pass into planktonic basinal lime mudstones of the Bou Dabbous
Formation.
To the south of the palaeo-high, only 2m of gastropod limestones were observed, from which
nummulites are absent. These limestones are assigned to the Ain Merhotta Formation
(Moody, 1987). The gastropod-rich deposits are interpreted as a lagoonal facies.
At the end of El Garia carbonate deposition, the available accommodation space was entirely
filled by sediments. The intra-shelf basin represented by a narrow belt of nummulithoclast
deposits within the Operculina platform was progressively filled by Operculina facies and
then by nummulitic limestones which prograded towards the platform/basin margin.

STRUCTURAL CONTROLS ON FACIES DISTRIBUTION

In Tunisia, rifting between the Middle Jurassic and Early Cretaceous resulted in a major NW-
SE oriented fault system (Mercier et al., 2000). These faults were reactivated during the Late
Cretaceous in the Kesra area, where syn-sedimentary faults and slumped units are frequently
observed within the Cretaceous succession. This structural instability has previously been
identified by many researchers including Jauzein (1967), Burollet et al. (1982), Marie et al.
(1984), Burollet et al. (1986), Zouari et al. (1990), Negra (1994) and Zaïer et al. (1998).

12
The Kesra Plateau is characterized by a fault network with three major axes: east-west, NE-
SW and NW-SE (Fig. 11). The NW-SE faults are parallel to the Cretaceous structural trend in
central Tunisia. Two anticlinal structures are present in the Kesra Plateau: the Oued Balhoul
anticline, from which the El Garia Formation is missing, and the Djebel Serj anticline.
Palaeogeographic maps (Fig. 12) show that facies belts trend more or less parallel to the NW-
SE faults. This strongly suggests that facies distribution was controlled by the residual
topography resulting formed by the activation of NW-SE trending faults during the Late
Cretaceous. Various observations in the Kesra area suggest that this palaeotopography
predated the deposition of the late Ypresian carbonates: (i) the occurrence of synsedimentary
faults and slumped deposits at the top of the Late Cretaceous succession; (ii) the important
sedimentary hiatus between the Abiod and the Chouabine - El Garia Formations; and (iii) the
presence of post-depositional normal faults affecting the El Garia deposits.
On this inherited topography, nummulite deposits accumulated on palaeo-highs while
nummulithoclasts facies tended to be concentrated within palaeo-lows. The transition with the
basinal deposits of the Bou Dabbous Formation suggests a significant bathymetric change,
which could be related to a major change in slope angle controlled by a NW-SE trending fault.

3D FACIES MODEL

The synthetic facies model in Fig. 13 takes into account detailed facies and fault distributions
observed in the Kesra Plateau area. This model contrasts with the homoclinal ramp proposed
by Loucks et al. (1998), in which nummulitic packstones/grainstones were deposited in mid-
ramp settings in 30-60m of water. In our interpretation, the carbonate platform was affected
by major normal faults which divided various different depositional environments. Evidence
of local sub-aerial exposure and the presence of high-energy structures indicate that the
nummulite facies was deposited in very shallow waters, perhaps of only a few metres.
Nummulite carbonate production was focused on Cretaceous palaeo-highs, with the small
robust nummulite facies deposited at crestal locations. Bars with high concentrations of large,
flat imbricated nummulites formed in shallow-water locations swept by high-energy currents
as indicated by the cross-bedding structures. Behind these bars were protected zones in which
large robust nummulites and large bivalve packstones were deposited. In front of the
nummulite bars occur small nummulite and Discocyclina packstones characterising a more
open-marine environment.

13
The Operculina facies marks the transition between the nummulite platform and the outer-
platform environment. Nummulithoclast facies (Ousselat Member) dominated outer-platform
zones and also an intra-shelf depression which formed as a result of tectonically-driven
subsidence associated with local normal fault activity. The presence of fine-grained,
laminated sediments rich in organic matter within this graben suggests a confined
environment with reduce oxygen levels.
The pinch-out of the nummulite facies belt towards the SW, and the absence of nummulites
behind the Oued Bahloul anticline, shows that this structural high formed a major
environmental barrier between open-marine and a more protected setting. The protected zone
is interpreted as a closed embayment. The gastropod limestones of the Ain Merhotta
Formation constitute a lateral equivalent of the nummulite platform deposits to the NE.
The nummulithoclast-dominated facies within the intra-shelf basin constitutes a tight reservoir
unit, but the organic matter may confer some source potential. Similar facies have been found
in the D2-137N field (NW offshore Libya), and in the nearby Al Jurf field, nummulithoclastic
grainstones have good reservoir characteristics. Late diagenetic dissolution or dolomitization
may result in secondary porosity which could enhance reservoir potential.

CONCLUSIONS

1. We have studied a late Ypresian nummulite carbonate platform in the Kesra Plateau of
central Tunisia. On the basis of new biostratigraphic data, we identify an important
sedimentary hiatus between the Late Cretaceous and the late Ypresian depositional sequences.
This erosional event could be explained by uplift of the Kesra Plateau during the Palaeocene.
2. Biostratigraphically-derived dates for the base of the Chouabine Formation (51Ma) and the
top of the El Garia Formation (49 Ma) suggest that the nummulite carbonate interval
represents about 2Ma of deposition.
3. Detailed petrographic and stratigraphic studies show that the El Garia Formation is
characterised by frequent facies and thickness variations, from nummulitic
packstones/grainstones in the SW to thick nummulithoclastic accumulations in the NE.
Variations in nummulite morphology allow six subfacies to be defined, each associated with
different depositional settings. The location of the subfacies along a generalized depositional
profile varies according to nummulite morphology, by the presence of Discocyclina and
Operculina, and by the proportion of nummulithoclasts in the matrix.

14
4. The El Garia Formation is composed of two shallowing-up depositional sequences
separated by a deepening-up sequence, which is only recorded in the deeper part of the
platform. The break in nummulite carbonate production detected during this transgressive
period suggests a major eustatic change.
5. 3D modelling allows the stratigraphic architecture of the nummulite bodies to be detailed.
Two stacked nummulite bodies are present in proximal parts of the platform, passing into two
disconnected bodies in more distal areas.
6. Regional-scale observations showed that the late Ypresian platform was strongly influenced
by the presence of the Oued Bahloul anticline structure, which formed a major environmental
barrier between an open-marine and a more protected settings. Facies transitions in the Kesra
area appear to have been controlled by residual topography resulting from reactivation of
NNW-SSE faults during the Late Cretaceous and the Palaeocene. The maximum progradation
of the nummulite belt towards the NE occurs when the available accommodation space was
filled within the paleo-lows (at the top of the Late Ypresian).
7. A 3D facies model is proposed to illustrate the relation between facies and fault
distributions observed in the Kesra area. The facies distribution of the carbonate platform was
strongly controlled by topographic irregularities, and the best potential reservoirs are located
at the top of the palaeo-highs. Close to these areas, evidence of local sub-aerial exposure
confirms that the nummulite reservoir facies was deposited in water depths of a few metres.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors would like to thank Alphonse Blondeau for the identification of the nummulites
collected from Kesra, and Roland Wernli (University of Geneva) for the identification of the
planktonic foraminifera. The assistance of Richard Labourdette (Total Exploration
Production) for the 3D reconstruction was greatly appreciated. Pierre Masse (Total
Exploration Production), Munir ben Ahmad (CPTL, Libya), Pierre Le Guern and Yves
Nardini (University of Geneva) are also thanked for their help in the field. Critical comments
by Philippe Charpentier (Total Exploration Production) and Herbert Heichenseer (Total
Exploration Production) are acknowledged. Journal review was by Dick Moody and Andrew
Racey whose comments on a previous version are acknowledged with thanks.

15
REFERENCES
AIGNER, T., 1985. Biofabrics as dynamic indicators in nummulite accumulations. Journal of
Sedimentary Petrology, 55, 131-134.
ARCHIAC, A. D’ and HAIME, J., 1853. Description des animaux fossiles du groupe
nummulitique de l’Inde, précédée d’un résumé géologique et d’une monographie des
Nummulites. Paris, Gide et J. Baudry, 373 pp.
ARNI, P., 1965. L'évolution des Nummulitinae en tant que facteur de modification des dépôts
littoraux. Colloque International de Micropaléontologie (Dakar), Mémoires du BRGM,
32, 7-20.
BARTHOLDY, J., BELLAS, S.M., COSOVIC, V., FUCEK, V.P. and KEUPP, H., 1999.
Processes controlling Eocene mid-latitude larger foraminifera accumulations: modelling
of the stratigraphic architecture of a fore-arc basin (Podhale Basin, Poland). Geologica
Carpathica, 50, 6, 435-448, Bratislava.
BIGNOT, G., 1972. Recherches stratigraphiques sur les Calcaires du Crétacé supérieur et de
l'Eocène d'Istrie et des régions voivines. Essai de révision du Liburien. Trav. Lab.
Micropal., Paris, 2, 353pp.
BISHOP, W.F., 1985. Eocene and Upper Cretaceous carbonate reservoirs in East Central
Tunisia. Oil and Gas Journal, Dec 2, 137-142.
BISHOP, W.F., 1988. Petroleum geology of East-Central Tunisia. AAPG Bull., 72 (9), 1033-
1058.
BLONDEAU, A., 1972. Les Nummulites. Vuibert, 254pp., Paris.
BUROLLET, P.F. and DESFORGES, G., 1982. Dynamique des bassins néo-crétacés en
Tunisie. Livre jub. G. Lucas, Mémoires Géologiques de l’Université de Dijon, 7, 381-
389.
BUROLLET, P.F. and ELLOUZ, N., 1986. L’évolution des bassins sédimentaires de la
Tunisie Centrale et Orientale. Bulletin des Centres Recherche Exploration-Production
Elf-Aquitaine, 10 (1), 49-68.
COMTE, D. and LEHMAN, P., 1974. Sur les carbonates de l'Yprésien et du Lutétien basal de
la Tunisie Centrale. Compagnie Française des Pétroles, Notes et Mémoires, 11, 225-
292.
DRIDI, M. and SEJIL, A., 1991. Eocene. In: Hmidi and Sadras (Eds.) Tunisian Exploration
Review. Entreprise Tunisienne d’Activités Pétrolières (ETAP), 73-93.

16
EICHENSEER, H. and LUTERBACHER, H., 1992. The Marine Paleogene of the Tremp
Region (NE Spain) - Depositional Sequences, Facies History, Biostratigraphy and
Controlling Factors. Facies, 27, 119-152.
FAID, N., 1995. Contribution à l’étude stratigraphique de l’Eocène des Aures et des régions
limitrophes (Altas Saharien, Algérie). Thèse Doct. ès. Sci., Université d’Orléans, 183pp.
FISCHEUR, E., 1890. Les terrains éocènes de la Kabylie de Djurjura. Alger, 474 pp.
FORNÓS, J.J., FORTEZA, V. and MARTINEZ-TABERNER, A., 1997. Modern polychaete
reefs in Western Mediterranean lagoons: Ficopomatus enigmaticus (Fauvel) in the
Albufera of Menorca, Balearic Islands. Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology,
Palaeoecology, 128, 175-186.
FOURNIÉ, D., 1975. L’analyse séquentielle et la sédimentologie de l’Yprésien de Tunisie.
Bull. Cent. Rech., Pau-SNPA, 9, 27-75.
FOURNIÉ, D., 1978. Nomenclature lithostratigraphique des séries du Crétacé supérieur au
Tertiaire de Tunisie. Bull. Cent. Rech. Explor.-Prod. Elf-Aquitaine, 2 (1), 97-148.
HARPE, P., de la, 1883. Monographie der in Ägypten und der lybischen Wüste
vorkommenden Nummuliten. Palaeontographica, 30, 157-216.
HARPER, C.W., Jr., 1984. Improved Methods of Facies Sequence Analysis. In: Walker, R.G.
(Ed.), Facies Models. Geoscience Canada, Reprint Series 1, 11-13.
HASLER, C.-A., in press. Geometry and internal discontinuities of an Ypresian carbonate
reservoir (SIT oil field, Tunisia). Thèse Doct. ès. Sci., Université de Genève, Terre et
Environnement.
HOHENEGGER, J., YORDANOVA, E. and HATTA, A., 2000. Remarks on West Pacific
Nummulitidae (Foraminifera). Journal of Foraminiferal Research, 30 (1), 3-28.
HOTTINGER, L., 1973. Distribution of larger Peneroplidae, Borelis and Nummulitidae in
the Gulf of Elat, Red Sea. Utrecht Micropaleontological Bulletin, 15, 35-110.
JAUZEIN, A., 1967. Contribution à l'étude géologique des confins de la Dorsale tunisienne.
Annales des Mines et de la Géologie, 22, 475 pp.
KENNETH, J.P. and SCOTT, L.D., 1991. Abrupt deep-sea warming, palaeoceanographic
changes and benthic extinctions at the end of the Paleocene. Nature, 353, 225-229.
LOUCKS, R.G., MOODY, R.T.J., BELLIS, J.K. and BROWN, A.A., 1998. Regional
depositional setting and pore network systems of the El Garia Formation (Metlaoui
Group, Lower Eocene), offshore Tunisia. In: Macgregor, D.S., Moody, R.T.J. and
Clark-Lowes, D.D., (Eds.), Petroleum Geology of North Africa. Geol. Soc. Lond., Spec.
Publ., 132, 355-374.

17
MARIE, J., TROUVE, P., DESFORGES, G. and DUFAURE, P., 1984. Nouveaux éléments
de paléogéographie du Crétacé de Tunisie. Notes et Mémoires, Compagnie Française
des Pétroles, 19, 7-37.
MERCIER, E., FRIZON DE LAMOTTE, D., SAINT BÉZARD, B. and BRACÈNE, R.,
2000. The two main steps of the Atlas building and geodynamics of the western
Mediterranean. Tectonics, 19, (4), 740-761.
MIDDLETON, G.V., 1973. Johannes Walther's Law of the correlation of facies. Geological
Society of America Bulletin, 84, 979-988.
MOODY, R.T.J., 1987. The Ypresian carbonates of Tunisia -- a model of foraminiferal facies
distribution. In: Hart, M.B. (Ed.), Micropalaeontology of Carbonate Environments.
B.M.S. Series, Ellis Horwood, Chichester, pp.82-92.
MOODY, R.T.J. and GRANT, G.G., 1989. On the importance of bioclasts in the definition of
depositional model for the Metlaoui carbonate group. Actes des IIème Journées de
Géologie Tunisienne Appliquée à la Recherche des Hydrocarbures, Mémoires de l'Etap,
3, 409-427.
NEGRA, H., 1994. Les dépôts de plate-forme à bassin du Crétacé supérieur en Tunisie centro-
septentrionale (formation Abiod et faciès associés); stratigraphie, sédimentation,
diagenèse et intérêt pétrolier. Thèse Doct. ès Sci., Université de Tunis II.
NEMKOV, G.I., 1962. Remarques sur la paléoécologie des Nummulites. Vopr.
Micropaleontol., SSSR, 6, 64-72, Traduction B.R.G.M.
PECHEUX, M.J.-F., 1995. Ecomorphology of a recent large foraminifer, Operculina
ammonoides. Geobios, 28, 529-566.
RACEY, A., 2001. A review of Eocene nummulite accumulations: Structure, formation and
reservoir potential. Journ. Petrol. Geol., 24 (1), 79-100.
RACEY, A., BAILEY, H.W., BECKETT, D., GALLAGHER, T., HAMPTON, M.J. and
McQUILKEN, J., 2001. The petroleum geology of the Early Eocene El Garia
Formation, Hasdrubal field, offshore Tunisia. Journ. Petrol. Geol., 24 (1), 29-53.
RIGANE, A., 1991. Les calcaires de l'Yprésien en Tunisie centro-septentrionale :
cartographie cinématique et dynamique des structures. Thèse doct. ès Sciences, Uni.
Franche-Conté, 181 pp.
SCHAUB, H., 1981. Nummulites et Assilines de la Téthys Paléogène. Taxinomie,
phylogenèse et biostratigraphie. Schweizerische Paläontologische Abhandlungen, 104,
105, 106.

18
SERRA-KIEL, J., HOTTINGER, L., CAUS, E., DROBNE, K., FERRÀNDEZ, C., JAUHRI,
A.K., LESS, G., PAVLOVEC, R., PIGNATTI, J., SAMSO, J.M., SCHAUB, H.,
SIREL, E., STROUGO, A., TAMBAREAU, Y., TOSQUELLA, J. and
ZAKREVSKAYA, E., 1998. Larger foraminiferal biostratigraphy of Tethyan Paleocene
and Eocene. Bull. Soc. Géol. France, 169, 2, 281-299.
VENNIN, E., VAN BUCHEM, F.S.P., JOSEPH, P., GAUMET, F., SONNENFELD, M.,
REBELLE, M., FAKHFAKH-BEN JEMIA, H. and ZIJLSTRA, H., 2003. A 3D outcrop
analogue model for Ypresian nummulitic carbonate reservoirs: Jebel Ousselat, northern
Tunisia. Petroleum Geoscience, 9 (2), 145-161.
WALKER, R.G., 1984. General Introduction : Facies, Facies Sequences and Facies Models.
In: Walker, R.G., (Ed.): Facies Models. Geoscience Canada, Reprint Series 1, 1-9.
WALTHER, J., 1894. Einleitung in die Geologie als historische Wissenschaft. Verlag von
Gustav Fischer, Jena, 3 vols., 1055 pp.
ZACHOS, J., PAGANI, M., SLOAN, L., THOMAS, E. and BILLUPS, K., 2001. Trends,
Rythms, and Aberrations in Global Climate 65 Ma to Present. Science, 292, 686-693.
ZAÏER, A., BEJI-SASSI, A., SASSI, S. and MOODY, R.T.J., 1998. Basin evolution and
deposition during the Early Palaeogene in Tunisia. In: Macgregor, D.S., Moody, R.T.J.
and Clark-Lowes, D.D., (Eds.): Petroleum Geology of North Africa. Geol. Soc. Lond.,
Spec. Publ., 132, 375-393.
ZOUARI, H., TURKI, M.M. and DELTEIL, J., 1990. Nouvelles données sur l’évolution
tectonique de la chaîne de Gafsa. Bull. Soc. Géol. France, 8 (VI), 621-629.

CAPTIONS

Table 1. Classification scheme for nummulite-bearing deposits used in this study, based on
variations in nummulite morphology.
Fig. 1. Location map of the study area in the Kesra Plateau, Central Tunisia.
Fig. 2. Generalized stratigraphy of the Metlaoui Group (after Zaïer et al., 1998). The Faid,
Ain Merhotta, El Garia and Bou Dabbous Formations represent time-equivalent lateral
variation of facies along a landward-basinward depositional profile.
Fig. 3. General stratigraphy of outcropping rocks in the Kesra Plateau.
Fig. 4. Late Ypresian Nummulites species collected from the top of the El Garia Formation,
Kesra Plateau.

19
Fig. 5. Field photograph of a vertical transition between two nummulitic facies, here separated
by an undulating erosive surface. The intervals can be distinguished in terms of
nummulite contents and morphologies. Thus horizon “a” is a small robust nummulite
grainstone, while “b” is a large flat nummulite grainstone.
Fig. 6. Construction of a theoretic facies model for the El Garia Formation based on the
method of the most frequent stratigraphic facies transitions.
Fig. 7. Photomicrographs illustrating various characteristics of the intra-El Garia Formation
stratigraphic surface (see text for details).
a,b. Photomicrograph illustrating the dissolution of large bivalve shell with infilling
vadose silts and nummulithoclasts;
c. Photomicrograph showing pendant cement beneath a nummulite test.
d. Calcite pendant cement under cathodo-luminescence;
e. Detail of early syntaxial cement developed around an echinoderm fragment; fluid
inclusions in this early diagenetic phase were studied and provided evidence for sub-
aerial exposure (see text for details).
Fig. 8. 2D outcrop map of a cliff face located near the centre of the Kesra Plateau. A
discontinuous horizon of argillaceous wackestone is interpreted as a transgressive facies
and can be traced for several kilometres to the east. The top of the cliff is composed of
small robust nummulite grainstones, which are extended progressively further eastwards
over time.
Fig. 9. 3D fence diagram of the stratigraphic architecture of late Ypresian carbonates of the El
Garia Formation in the Kesra Plateau.
Fig. 10. Palaeogeographic map showing the distribution of late Ypresian facies in the Kesra-
Maktar area. Outcrops: DB: Djebel Bellouta; DbA: Djebel ben Abbes; DeA: Dir el
Attaf; DM: Djebel Mansoura; DS: Djebel Serj; KeG: Kef el Garia; KeL: Kef el Lia;
KM: Kef Mergueb; KP: Kesra Plateau; OB: Oued Bahloul; OK: Oued Kranga.
Fig. 11. Principal structural trends in the Kesra Plateau area.
Fig. 12. Facies distribution in the Kesra Plateau area in the context of the dominant NNW-
SSE fault trend.
Fig. 13. 3D facies model showing the distribution of late Ypresian carbonates in the Kesra
area.

20
 Figure 1

8° 10°

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

N
Zaghouan
Le Kef
36°
Siliana
P4
Rebaa
W E Kairouan
Sousse

P4 Kasserine
C73
P12
S Sfax
Gafsa Kerkenna
Gulf islands
34° Tozeur of Gabès
Ousseltia Gabès Djerba
C71 Maktar
P4
KESRA C46
PLATEAU Médennine
Nlle Kesra C99
TUNISIA
Kef
P12
El Garia Tataouine
KAIROUAN

32°
C85
Rohia
P12 N
C77 P3
Haffouz
C71 El Ala ALGERIA
W E

P3
0 50 100 km S
50 KM
30°
LIBYA
 Figure 2

LANDWARD BASIN

GAFSA
BASIN
LUTETIAN

JEBS CHERAHIL SOUAR HALK EL MENZEL

COMPACT MICRITE
BOU LOUFA

TANIT

METLAOUI
UPPER
METLAOUI GROUP

UPPER

S.S.T.
YPRESIAN

AIN EL GARIA
FAID
MERHOTTA
BOU DABBOUS
OUSSELAT
MEMBER
MID

CHOUABINE
MAASTRICHTIAN DANO-MONTIAN

LOWER

EVAPORITIC SELJA
SELJA CARBONATES

EL HARIA

ABIOD
 Figure 3

(Serra-Kiel et al., 1998)

Lithology Formation Petrography Age Planktic Shallow Benthic
Zones Zones

SOUAR yellowish marls MIDDLE EOCENE Early Lutetian

nummulite and bivalve limestone - 49 Ma P9 / P10 SBZ12 / SBZ13*
nummulite limestone
Operculina limestone

EARLY EOCENE

Late Ypresian
argillaceous limestone
EL GARIA
nummulite limestone
Discocyclina and nummulite limestone
nummulithoclast limestone
bioturbated horizon
bioclastic limestone with nautiloids
nodular CHOUABINE bioturbated glauconitic marls
hardground
- 51 Ma P8* SBZ11
(- 70 Ma ?)
lithographic limestone with planktic * : Field data determination
ABIOD
foraminifera

Campanian - Maastrichtian
LATE CRETACEOUS
(not to scale)

dominant green shales, locally

ALEG interbedded with limestones
 Figure 4

Nummulites tenuilamellatus

Nummulites perplexus

Nummulites formosus

Nummulites pomeli

0.5 cm
Nummulites rollandi scale :
 Table 1

W < 1 cm W > 1 cm
Small Nummulites (A-forms) Large Nummulites (B-forms)
Robust Nummulites

W (width)
W / Th < 2

Th (thickness)

Small Robust Nummulite Large Robust Nummulite

Flat Nummulites
W / Th > 2

Small Flat Nummulite Large Flat Nummulite

 Figure 5

horizon b

horizon a
 Figure 6

a Transition matrix c Facies relationship diagram

0.01168
overlying facies
0.00011 0.00000
1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6
0 0 0 0 0 0
underlying facies
1 0.00000 0.00979 0.02186
2 0 0 7 3 0 0 0.00034 0.02022

3 5 12 0 3 3 1
Heavy lines show significant relationships at 0.1 level
4 2 4 9 0 5 1
5 0 1 6 10 0 11
d Theoretic shallowing-up sequence
6 0 0 1 1 21 0
1 large robust nummulite and bivalve grainstones
b Preferential transitions statistically proved 2 small robust nummulite grainstones

facies P N M Probability 3 large flat nummulite grainstones

EL GARIA
transition
2 3 0.17 10 7 0.00034 4 small nummulite and Discocyclina packstones
3 1 0.06 24 5 0.01168
5 Operculina and nummulithoclast packstones
3 2 0.16 24 12 0.00011
4 3 0.19 21 9 0.00979 6 bioturbated nummulithoclast packstones
5 4 0.18 28 10 0.02186
5 6 0.21 28 11 0.02022 nautiloid packstones-wackestones CHOUABINE
6 5 0.26 24 21 0.00000
bioturbated glauconitic marls
P transition probability for random sequence
N total no. of transitions from lower facies
M observed no. of transition from lower to upper e Theoretic depositional model of the lateral distribution of nummulite
facies facies of the El Garia Formation
Probability : binomial probability of M or more
successes in N trials under null hypothesis
(random sequence)
A probability lower than the threshold value (0.02) 1 2 3
indicates that the transition from facies a to b 4 5
occurs more frequently than predicted by random 6
chance
 Figure 7

"corroded"
a b nummulite

serpulid
tube

residual moldic porosity

infilled by drusy calcite
dissolved bivalve shell
infilled by nummulithoclasts

nummulite

scaphopod

1 cm 1 cm

c d

1.5 mm

2 mm 1 mm
 Figure 8

Dir Feddane el Mrassi outcrop

W E

View of lateral extent of unconformities

Interpretation

S3b S3b
10m
S3a
S2 silicified horizons S2

0 10m

2 small robust nummulite grainstones 5 Operculina and nummulithoclast packstones

deepening-up cycle
3 large flat nummulite grainstones 6 bioturbated nummulithoclast packstones
4 small nummulite and Discocyclina packstones argillaceous wackestones shallowing-up cycle
 Figure 9

km
30m

1 km
N
S3b
W E S3a
S2
S
S1

S3b

S2
S1
1 large robust nummulite and bivalve grainstones 6 nummulithoclast packstones
2 small robust nummulite grainstones argillaceous wackestones
3 large flat nummulite grainstones nautiloid packstones-wackestones
4 small nummulite and Discocyclina packstones bioturbated glauconitic marls
5 Operculina and nummulithoclast packstones
reservoir rocks
non-reservoir rocks
km
30m

1 km
N

W E

S
 Figure 10

LEGEND

gastropod limestone

OK
"bald zone" (topographic high)
DB DS
DeA
KeL nummulite limestone

KM
Maktar Operculina limestone
DM
nummulithoclast limestone
Nlle Kesra
planktonic foraminifera mud
OB
Upper Ypresian outcrops
N
fault

Rohia W E
visited outcrop

DbA S
compiled from :
10 KM Jauzein, 1967
Rigane, 1991
 Figure 11

N
anticlinal axis
of Djebel Serj

W E

Kesra Plateau
S
Pont Roman

N 330

N 30

N 85

Main fault trends

Kef El Garia
Legend

El Garia facies
anticline axis
of Oued Bahloul structure fault
structural axis
5 kilometres
 Figure 12

TOP SEQUENCE S2 TOP SEQUENCE S3a

1D section 1D section

fault fault

1 km 1 km

Kesra Plateau N Kesra Plateau N

W E W E

S S

TOP SEQUENCE S3b Facies

2 small robust nummulite grainstones
1D section
3 large flat nummulite grainstones
fault

1 km
4 small nummulite and Discocyclina packstones

5 Operculina and nummulithoclast packstones

Kesra Plateau N 6 bioturbated nummulithoclast packstones

argillaceous wackestones

W E
sub-aerial exposure

S non-deposition or erosion
 Figure 13

TA US
OT RI
A BO
RH A
DA
B
ME E LG U
A IN BO
SW KASSERINE ISLAND SUPRATIDAL FLAT RESTRICTED BAY NUMMULITE PLATFORM BASIN NE
gastropod bar large flat nummulite facies

gastropod beach nummulite bar small nummulite and Discocyclina facies

protected zone Operculina facies
evaporites
dolomite small robust nummulithoclast facies
nummulite
facies planktonic foram. mud
0m
minor terrigeneous input
SWB

200m

S
RL
E MA
EN
CRETACEOUS SUBSTRATUM OC
LE
PA

5 kilometres
TOP OF PALEO-HIGH INTRA-SHELF BASIN
(karstified zone) (nummulithoclasts and organic matter)
Siliana N KESRA PLATEAU
Rebaa

W E

Ousseltia
KESRA S
Maktar PLATEAU

Kef
El Garia
KAIROUAN

Rohia
Haffouz 5 kilometres
50 KM El Ala

Paleogeographic location of the diagram Location of the Kesra Plateau on the 3D diagram