Stratigraphic Response to Evolving Geomorphology in a Submarine Apron Perched on the Upper Niger Delta Slope

Abstract

This submarine apron is an analog for the stratigraphic architecture of shallow ponded basins common to stepped, above-grade slopes, where late-stage bypass valleys and channels did not form. Deposition of this apron began within shallow ponded accommodation. Sediment gravity flows entering the basin pass through a leveed channel that incises underlying slope muds. Flows spread, becoming depositional once reaching lower-gradient area within ponded accommodation. Incisions at the distal end of the basin suggest that gravity flows downcut the basin sill as they bypass the basin during filling of ponded accommodation. A channelized apron downlaps the ponded deposits, healing the stepped topographic profile formed after ponded accommodation fills. Collapsing flows exiting the entry-point channel create plunge-pool scours in the proximal part of the apron. Sediment gravity flows exiting the plunge-pool scour accelerate over the steeper face of the apron, eroding bypass channels as healing progresses. Avulsion takes place as the height of the lower apron unit builds, forcing flows to bypass and erode the southwestern flank of the lower apron. Avulsion leads to deposition of an upper apron unit. Throughout deposition of the aprons, flows leave the basin through a gather zone at the exit point of the basin, forming a tributary scour pattern. Acceleration of these flows as they top the basin sill forms a deeply incised submarine valley. Erosion of the sill progresses by headward-migrating knickpoints that truncate apron deposits.