APPLICATION OF SEQUENCE AND GENETIC STRATIGRAPHIC CONCEPTS TO CARBONIFEROUS COAL-BEARING STRATA - AN EXAMPLE FROM THE BLACK WARRIOR BASIN, USA

Carboniferous strata provide an excellent example on which to test the application of genetic stratigraphic and sequence stratigraphic conce pts. Both approaches are employed in the evaluation of the coal-bearin g strata of the Black Warrior basin, south-eastern USA. Bounding hiata l surfaces have been recognized in the succession of rock that include s the Mary Lee coal zone. Within the framework of genetic stratigraphy , one genetic sequence has been identified comprised of offlap (progra dational and aggradational facies) and onlap (aggradational and transg ressive facies) components. Seven parasequence sets have been delimite d according to the concepts of sequence stratigraphy. These have been ascribed to transgressive, highstand and shelf margin systems tracts. The identification of components of these contrasting frameworks provi de the basis for evaluating other Carboniferous strata.