Multi‐level Detachments and Petroleum Potential of the Tarim Basin

Abstract Four detachment systems have been found in the Tarim Basin. They are made up of the Proterozoic, Palaeozoic, Mesozoic‐Eogene and Neogene‐Quaternary, respectively. The shallow‐level detachments are characterized by the occurrence of fold‐thrust belts in the Meso‐Cenozoic. The mid‐level detachments are marked by nappes, decollement folds and drag anticlines in the Palaeozoic. The deep‐level detachments are represented by ductile shear belts in the basement. Mid‐ and deep‐level detachments mainly occur in the Northern, Central and Southern Uplifts which are major hydrocarbon accumulation belts of large‐scale oil fields. Shallow‐level detachments mainly exist in the Kuqa, Southwestern and Southeastern Depressions, which are favourable belts for finding medium‐ and small‐sized oil‐gas fields.