Identification of mass transport complexes and their implications for hydrocarbon exploration: An example from the Central Canyon area in southeastern Hainan Basin

The mass transport complexes (MTC) form a significant component of the stratigraphic record in the deep-water basins worldwide. Exemplified by the Central Canyon area in southeastern Hainan Basin, the emphasis in the present paper is placed upon the identification of mass transport complexes and their implications for hydrocarbon exploration. The results of research show that the mass transport complexes have highly variable boundary, slip blocks, thrust blocks and chaotic reflection. Although they are not considered to be primary exploration targets, they have the potential of deep-water stratigraphic traps and seal rocks and source rocks.