Systems tracts and depositional sequences in a carbonate setting: a study of continuous outcrops from platform to basin at the scale of seismic lines

Abstract The application of sequence stratigraphy concepts to carbonates is feasible and this paper presents an example of its successful application. The continuity and lateral extent of outcropping sedimentary sections observed at the scale of a seismic line from platform to basin in the Southern Vercors Plateau (western Alps, France) confirm the validity of sequence stratigraphy concepts when applied to carbonate depositional systems. From the stratal patterns displayed in outcrop, we determined that carbonate lowstand systems tracts are major components in the basin, even in the deep pelagic realm. Transgressive and highstand systems tracts are very thin, a response to starvation. In co…