The Role of Applied Micropaleontology in Integrating Geological and Geophysical Data for the Exploration and Development of South Caspian Oil and Gas Fields

The South Caspian is one of the largest oil and gas-producing regions in the Caspian Sea, containing most offshore fields and major prospective reserves of Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Iran. Effective development and exploration of these resources require a detailed understanding of Quaternary sea bottom sediments—their composition, microfauna, stratigraphy, thickness, and physical properties. This is essential not only for improving geological exploration efficiency and safety but also for solving engineering and geological challenges associated with field development.

This study presents results from a comprehensive analysis of data obtained from offshore wells in the South Caspian. We integrated geological and geophysical datasets, including seismic surveys, lithological descriptions, and paleontological studies.

Our findings are of practical importance for addressing geological and geoengineering tasks in the region, which are complicated by features such as mud volcanoes and active sedimentary dynamics. By analyzing the upper sedimentary layers, we gained critical insights into the geological structure, sedimentary architecture, and dynamic processes shaping the region’s offshore fields.

The research underscores the value of applied micropaleontology in synthesizing diverse data to develop a detailed understanding of subsurface conditions. This approach enhances exploration strategies and supports the safe and efficient development of offshore oil and gas fields in the Caspian Basin.