Home Integrated well-seismic analysis of sedimentary facies distribution: A case study from the Mesoproterozoic, Ordos Basin, China
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Integrated well-seismic analysis of sedimentary facies distribution: A case study from the Mesoproterozoic, Ordos Basin, China

  • Longhui Gao , Xianghui Jing EMAIL logo , Jingchun Tian EMAIL logo , Tao Zhang , Qingshao Liang EMAIL logo , Junfeng Ren and Feng Wang
Published/Copyright: October 4, 2025
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Open Geosciences
From the journal Open Geosciences Volume 17 Issue 1

Abstract

To advance the understanding of Mesoproterozoic sedimentary facies and delineate their distribution patterns in the Ordos Basin, this study systematically analyzes the sedimentary characteristics and stratigraphic architecture of the Mesoproterozoic sequences using integrated datasets, including core samples, well logs, seismic profiles, and field outcrops. The results indicate that the Mesoproterozoic Changcheng System, shaped by rift-related processes, displays a southwest-to-northeast thinning trend, culminating in stratigraphic pinch-out. Three Facies associations are identified: rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies (dominated by sandstones with abundant basaltic eruptives in the Changcheng rift trough), shoreface sandstone facies (primarily lower shoreface subfacies with quartz sandstones and mudstones), and fluvial facies (sandstone-siltstone sequences). During the Jixian System, post-Changcheng “compensatory sedimentation” led to a significantly reduced depositional area dominated by tidal flat environments. A southwest-to-northeast facies transition progresses from shelf facies (siltstones interbedded with shales and bioclastic limestones) through mid-ramp facies to tidal flat and mixed tidal flat facies, collectively forming a carbonate tidal flat system dominated by siliceous-banded dolomites. The Mesoproterozoic succession in the Ordos Basin thus records an evolutionary trajectory from rift basin infilling (“leveling”) to the development of a shallow marine clastic-carbonate platform during the Jixian System, reflecting progressive tectonic stabilization and paleoenvironmental transitions.

Keywords: sedimentary facies; sedimentary evolution; mesoproterozoic; ordos basin

1 Introduction

The Ordos Basin, situated on the western margin of the North China Craton and spanning five provinces (Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, and Shanxi), represents a typical multi-cycle superimposed cratonic basin [1]. Composed of metamorphic basement and sedimentary cover [2], it underwent four Meso-Neoproterozoic tectonic-sedimentary evolutionary stages: rifting, passive continental margin, marginal subsidence, and marginal depression. These stages correspond sequentially to marine-terrestrial transitional deposits, epicontinental sea deposits, restricted basin deposits, and glacial deposits. Studies indicate that the Changcheng System developed a series of rift troughs, exhibiting a depositional framework characterized by elevated northern regions, depressed southern areas, and alternating uplift-depression zones.

Previous studies have demonstrated that hydrocarbon exploration in the Meso-Neoproterozoic strata of the Ordos Basin has predominantly focused on the Changcheng System [3,4,5,6,7,8,9], while research and exploration efforts for the Jixian, Qingbaikou, and Sinian systems remain limited, with their hydrocarbon generation potential requiring further investigation. In contrast, numerous primary oil and gas fields within the Meso-Neoproterozoic sequences have been discovered globally [10,11,12,13], whereas hydrocarbon development in the Ordos Basin lags comparatively. Sedimentological analyses indicate that the Meso-Neoproterozoic Changcheng System in the basin primarily developed deltaic, coastal, shallow marine, and bathyal facies, while the Jixian System is dominated by tidal flat deposits [14,15,16].

The most critical element in the oil and gas industry is the use of geophysical logging for reservoir characterization and optimal point evaluation procedures to predict subsurface lithofacies [17,18,19,20]. However, the Ordos Basin lacks sufficient Mesoproterozoic outcrops, drilling data, and high-resolution seismic profiles in most areas, resulting in significant academic disagreements regarding the tectonic-sedimentary evolutionary processes of this period, which has constrained the progress of hydrocarbon exploration. Research indicates that seismic wave groups are closely related to lithology, grain size, sedimentary structures, and stratigraphic geometry [21]. In regions with limited well data and outcrops, seismic analysis offers a more precise and efficient method for studying the spatiotemporal distribution of sedimentary facies [22,23]. The Ordos Basin features abundant petroleum resources with substantial research achievements; however, exploration and development have predominantly focused on Mesozoic and Paleozoic strata, resulting in limited investigation of the deep Proterozoic sequences [24]. For the Mesoproterozoic strata specifically, their old age, deep burial, intense tectonic modification, and scarce outcrops have led to insufficient prior research. Therefore, this study utilizes seismic framework mega-line profiles from the Changqing Oilfield, integrated with available drilling data, outcrop observations, and recent seismic surveys. Through well-seismic integrated analysis, we accurately characterize sedimentary facies types and their spatiotemporal distribution in the Mesoproterozoic-Neoproterozoic succession of the Ordos Basin. This work aims to delineate sedimentary facies distribution patterns and provide scientific support for Proterozoic hydrocarbon exploration.

2 Geological setting

The Ordos Basin, situated along the western margin of the North China Craton, underwent a complex tectonic evolution during the formation of its crystalline basement. The basement predominantly comprises Archean to Paleoproterozoic metamorphic rock series, which were subjected to multi-stage tectonic reworking through the Qianxi, Fuping, Wutai, and Lüliang movements [25,26,27]. These processes ultimately stabilized into a cratonic basement, which not only provided a structural foundation for the deposition of Meso-Neoproterozoic strata but also governed the basin’s tectonic framework. During the Meso-Neoproterozoic era, the basin experienced critical tectonic events such as the Xiong’er, Jixian, and Jinning movements, transitioning from a rift-dominated setting to a passive continental margin. This evolution resulted in the development of six major structural units, including the Western Margin Thrust Belt, Tianhuan Depression, and Shanbei Slope (Figure 1). The tectonic evolution from the Mesoproterozoic Changchengian to the Neoproterozoic Sinian can be subdivided into four phases: (1) rift initiation during the Changcheng Period, marked by the formation of a western-southern rift system; (2) rift-to-sag transition in the Jixian Period; (3) regional uplift and stratigraphic denudation during the Qingbaikouan Period; and (4) localized subsidence along the southwestern margin in the Sinian Period, accompanied by glacial clastic deposition under the backdrop of Rodinia supercontinent breakup.

Figure 1 Division of tectonic units in the Ordos Basin and its periphery (a) (modified after Ouyang et al. [15]), location map of the Ordos Basin (b), and east–west and north–south chronostratigraphic framework of the Mesoproterozoic in the Ordos Basin (c) (modified after Cheng et al. [47]).
Figure 1

Division of tectonic units in the Ordos Basin and its periphery (a) (modified after Ouyang et al. [15]), location map of the Ordos Basin (b), and east–west and north–south chronostratigraphic framework of the Mesoproterozoic in the Ordos Basin (c) (modified after Cheng et al. [47]).

The stratigraphic architecture and sedimentary environments exhibit pronounced spatiotemporal heterogeneity (Figure 1). The Meso-Neoproterozoic succession, with a total thickness of 200–3,000 m, comprises the Changcheng, Jixian, Qingbaikou, and Sinian systems in ascending order. The Changcheng System, characterized by gray-white to reddish-brown sandstones and quartzose sandstones, unconformably overlies the metamorphic basement, reflecting a mixed continental-marine environment during initial rifting. The Jixian System, dominated by stromatolitic dolostones with siliceous banding, lies conformably above the Changcheng strata, indicative of shallow-marine carbonate platform deposition (Figure 1). The Neoproterozoic Qingbaikou System is restricted to the southeastern margin, with depositional hiatuses attributed to regional uplift, while the Sinian System, confined to the western-southern margins, records glacial clastic sequences that parallel-unconformably overlie older units, preserving evidence of Cryogenian glaciation linked to supercontinental fragmentation.

The spatiotemporal evolution of sedimentary systems demonstrates a tight coupling with tectonic dynamics. During the Mesoproterozoic rifting phase, thick clastic sequences accumulated in the western-southern aulacogens. The Jixian Period witnessed a shift to carbonate-dominated sedimentation as thermal subsidence replaced active extension. The Qingbaikouan orogeny induced basin-wide uplift, triggering marine regression and stratigraphic truncation. By the Sinian Period, localized subsidence along the southwestern cratonic margin accommodated glacial diamictites, coinciding with Rodinia’s disintegration and the establishment of an independent sedimentary regime.

The Changcheng System (Mesoproterozoic) is characterized by rift-related siliciclastic-volcanic lithofacies, fluvial facies, and littoral sandstone facies, deposited in response to extensional tectonics during incipient continental rifting [28]. The overlying Jixian System exhibits a transition to tidal flat environments, dominated by shelf facies, mid-ramp facies, mixed tidal flat facies, and supratidal facies, reflecting stable cratonic subsidence under passive margin conditions. This stratigraphic succession documents a systematic shift from syn-rift continental-margin sedimentation to post-rift carbonate-dominated platform development, indicative of evolving tectonic regimes from crustal extension to thermal subsidence [29]. The spatial distribution of these depositional systems not only constrains paleogeographic reconstructions but also delineates potential hydrocarbon plays, with fluvial-littoral sandstones serving as reservoir targets and tidal flat carbonates providing regional seals. Such sedimentological architecture offers critical insights into Precambrian basin dynamics and source-to-sink relationships, highlighting the interplay between plate-scale tectonism and hydrocarbon habitat development in the Ordos Cratonic Basin [1].

3 Methods

This study adopted comprehensive methods such as detailed observation of field sections and seismic data analysis to conduct research on the Mesoproterozoic strata in the Ordos Basin. Within the scope of this study, the field section of Xunjiansi Town, Luonan County, Mesoproterozoic of the Ordos Basin was systematically investigated, and sampling of Pantan 1 Well was conducted; finally, well-seismic calibration was performed on Line 1 and Line 4 in the basin, combined with 11 drilling wells along the lines.

Sedimentary facies refer to the similarity and consistency of sedimentary attributes (composition, texture, etc.) within specific spatial and temporal frameworks [30,31]. Through focused analysis of the stratigraphic profile in the Luonan region combined with prior datasets, preliminary identification of facies types was conducted based on color, lithology, and sedimentary structures. Furthermore, integrating drilling core samples, well logging data, and seismic profiles, this study employs a well-seismic calibrated facies marker analysis approach to achieve precise delineation of sedimentary facies. This methodology facilitates a comprehensive synthesis of the sedimentary characteristics and evolutionary trends of the Mesoproterozoic Changcheng–Jixian systems in the Ordos Basin, systematically elucidating their depositional patterns and environmental transitions.

4 Results

4.1 Petrological characteristics

The Changcheng and Jixian systems exhibit marked lithological contrasts (Figure 2). The Changcheng System is predominantly composed of purplish-red and gray-white quartzite, quartz sandstone, and quartz conglomerate, with the Xiong’er Group containing basalt and sandstone interbedded with volcanic eruptive rocks. The Gaoshanhe Group typically displays well-developed fine-grained quartz conglomerates at its base, transitioning upward to quartzite, quartz sandstone, and dolomicrite-dolomicrystalline dolomite in the middle sections, locally interbedded with siliceous band-bearing siltstone. The upper portions are dominated by quartz sandstone with minor dolomite intercalations, featuring quartz sandstone as the primary lithology, followed by feldspathic quartz sandstone and lithic quartz sandstone. In contrast, the Jixian System is carbonate-dominated, consisting mainly of micritic-dolomicrite dolomite, stromatolitic dolomite, intraclastic dolomite, peloidal dolomite, recrystallized dolomite, and siliceous band-bearing dolomite. Its basal sections commonly develop pebbly sandy dolomite, exhibiting a disconformable contact with the underlying Changcheng System [32].

Figure 2 Macro- and microscopic photographs of different rock types in the Mesoproterozoic Erathem of the Ordos Basin: (a) Mylonitized rock, Xiong’er Group, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (b) Quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, PT-1 Well, 5482.34 m; (c) Gravel-bearing quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, PT-1 Well, 5481.70 m; (d) Grayish-white quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (e) Stromatolite, Longjiayuan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (f) Columnar dolomite, Duguan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (g) Microscopic photo of columnar dolomite, Duguan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (h) Argillaceous dolomite, Fengjiawan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (i) Flint-banded dolomite, Xunjiansi Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section.
Figure 2

Macro- and microscopic photographs of different rock types in the Mesoproterozoic Erathem of the Ordos Basin: (a) Mylonitized rock, Xiong’er Group, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (b) Quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, PT-1 Well, 5482.34 m; (c) Gravel-bearing quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, PT-1 Well, 5481.70 m; (d) Grayish-white quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (e) Stromatolite, Longjiayuan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (f) Columnar dolomite, Duguan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (g) Microscopic photo of columnar dolomite, Duguan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (h) Argillaceous dolomite, Fengjiawan Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section; (i) Flint-banded dolomite, Xunjiansi Formation, Jixian System, Luonan section.

4.2 Analysis of sedimentary facies types

4.2.1 Sedimentary facies indicators

The Changcheng System of the Ordos Basin exhibits a suite of diagnostic sedimentary structures (Table 1), including cross-bedding, sandstone lenses, horizontal bedding, ripple marks, lenticular bedding, ripple marks-mud crack assemblages, and graded bedding. Their spatial distribution and combinatorial patterns record the evolutionary processes of paleo-depositional environments. Cross-bedding is widely developed in sandstones from the Subaigou section (Wuhai), Baisikou section (Yinchuan), and Xunjianzhen section (Luonan). Large-scale tabular cross-bedding in the Wuhai area indicates a high-energy unidirectional current regime, consistent with fluvial channel or tidal inlet deposition. The association of channel sandstone lenses and asymmetric ripple marks within the Gaoshanhe Group in Xunjianzhen, Luonan (Figure 3f), reveals fluvial facies characterized by cyclical energy fluctuations: flood events generated lenticular sand bodies, while waning flow stages developed ripple laminations. Concomitant normal grading (coarsening upward from basal coarse sand to fine sand) reflects exponential decay of hydrodynamic energy. Notably, inverse grading structures (single-layer thickness: 0.8–1.5 m, upward fining from basal fine sandstone to medium-coarse sandstone) identified in the Luonan Provincial Highway 202 section coexist with lenticular bedding and ripple marks-mud crack assemblages (Figure 3c), forming a complete pericontinental depositional sequence: storm-derived inverse-graded deposits in the basal shoreface zone, interbedded lenticular sand-mud layers in the mid-intertidal zone, and ripples with polygonal mud cracks in the supratidal zone. This vertical succession corroborates sea-level cyclicity as a dominant control on sedimentation. Lithofacies differentiation manifests spatially as significant facies belt migration. For instance, the dense development of columnar-laminated stromatolites within dolomite sequences of the Luonan profile correlates with microbial mat growth in low-energy tidal flat environments, while heavy mineral enrichment zones in quartz sandstones from the Yinchuan region signify rapid proximal accumulation in a rift margin setting. These genetic assemblages of sedimentary structures not only quantitatively constrain paleohydraulic conditions but, more critically, reconstruct the Mesoproterozoic rift-stage dynamic transition from continental marginal clastic systems to carbonate platforms through systematic multiscale structural analysis. This provides crucial sedimentological evidence for deciphering early tectonic-sedimentary coupling mechanisms in the Ordos Cratonic Basin.

Table 1

Comparison of sedimentary facies classification schemes for the mesoproterozoic erathem in the Ordos Basin

Sedimentary facies type Lithological characteristics Sedimentary structure characteristics
Rift sandstone facies – volcanic facies Basalt, mylonitized rock Vesicular structure
Fluvial facies Gravel, sandstone, siltstone Cross-bedding, channel sandstone lenticular body, wave marks, normal grading
Shoreface sandstone facies Quartz sandstone, siltstone, mudstone Reverse grading, oblique bedding, and lenticular bedding
Mixed sediment tidal flat facies Dolomite, grayish - white quartz sandstone, grayish-black mudstone, shale Wave marks and mud cracks
Shelf facies Argillaceous siltstone, shale, bioclastic limestone Gradational bedding, bioturbation structure
Carbonate tidal flat facies Micritic dolomite, laminated dolomite, siliceous banded dolomite Stromatolite
Figure 3 Diagnostic characteristics of different sedimentary facies in the Mesoproterozoic Erathem of the Ordos Basin: (a) Vesicular structure, basalt, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (b) Oblique bedding, quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (c) Lenticular bedding, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (d) Beach-bar, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (e) Hummocky cross-bedding, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (f) Sandstone lenticular body, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (g) Current ripple marks, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (h) Graded bedding, gravity flow deposits, black shale of Cuizhuang Formation, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (i) Parallel bedding in calcareous siltstone, Jixian System, Luonan section.
Figure 3

Diagnostic characteristics of different sedimentary facies in the Mesoproterozoic Erathem of the Ordos Basin: (a) Vesicular structure, basalt, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (b) Oblique bedding, quartz sandstone, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (c) Lenticular bedding, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (d) Beach-bar, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (e) Hummocky cross-bedding, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (f) Sandstone lenticular body, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (g) Current ripple marks, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (h) Graded bedding, gravity flow deposits, black shale of Cuizhuang Formation, Changcheng System, Luonan section; (i) Parallel bedding in calcareous siltstone, Jixian System, Luonan section.

4.2.2 Sedimentary facies classification scheme

  1. Rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies

    The mafic magmatism in the Mesoproterozoic North China Craton records three distinct tectono-thermal event sequences: the Xiong’er phase (∼1.80 Ga), mafic dyke swarm emplacement (∼1.75 Ga), and basaltic magmatic eruption (∼1.62 Ga). These events collectively developed in an intracontinental rifting tectonic setting [33,34], further confirming that the Ordos Block experienced prolonged regional extensional tectonics during the Mesoproterozoic Changcheng Period. Field observations of the Xiong’er Group volcanic-sedimentary assemblage in Mocha Village, Bayuan Town, reveal a dominantly clastic rock series intercalated with basaltic lava flows exhibiting amygdaloidal/vesicular textures (Figure 3a). The widespread occurrence of protomylonite (Figure 2a) within this sequence indicates that the Gaoshanhe Group Xiong’er assemblage represents rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies. This lithostratigraphic association, coupled with structural deformation features, provides robust evidence for syn-rift deposition and contemporaneous magmatic activity during the Mesoproterozoic basin evolution.

  2. Fluvial facies

    The sedimentary system in the central-northern study area is characterized by typical braided fluvial facies associations, dominated by conglomerate–sandstone coarse clastic sequences (Figure 2b and c). Detailed analysis of the Luonan section reveals lenticular sandstone bodies representing channel fills, containing large-scale trough cross-bedding (with set thickness up to 1.2 m), locally preserved ripple marks and normal grading rhythmic structures (Figure 3e, f and g). Regionally correlative sections demonstrate conglomerates interbedded with coarse sandstones (grain size: 0.5–1 mm) in outcrops at Subaigou (Wuhai City) and Baisikou (Yinchuan City), exhibiting high-angle tabular cross-bedding. Critical subsurface evidence from the PT-1 well core (5481.7–5482.34 m depth interval) contains sandy mudstone (plant debris-bearing), laminated siltstone, and subangular quartzite gravels. Wireline logs display typical box- to bell-shaped motifs, collectively documenting complete meandering-river “binary structures” with alternating point bar and floodplain depositional cycles.

  3. Shoreface sandstone facies

    The Luonan Xunjiansizhen section exhibits a tide-dominated terrigenous clastic succession characterized by high-energy sedimentary assemblages. Petrographic analyses demonstrate that the sequence is dominated by texturally mature medium- to coarse-grained quartz arenites (Figure 2d), interbedded with argillaceous siltstones and pyrite-bearing dolomitic mudstones. Within the clastic series, discontinuous thin-bedded brown shales occasionally display bioturbation structures. Tidal bimodal current regimes have imparted diagnostic sedimentary features, including pervasive herringbone cross-bedding and rhythmic tidal bedding throughout the sandstone units. The lower stratigraphic interval concentrates high-energy quartz arenites [35], exhibiting a diagnostic suite of sedimentary structures: large-scale tabular cross-bedding, wave-reworked ripple marks, and tidal channel-fill sandstone lenses (Figure 3b, c and g). Crucially, the vertical succession preserves foreshore-inclined bedding and retrogradational sand-mud alternations. These sedimentological fingerprints, integrated with regional stratigraphic correlations, conclusively identify the Luonan area as a shoreface subfacies depositional system.

  4. Mixed siliciclastic-carbonate tidal flat facies

    The mixed tidal flat facies is developed at the stratigraphic contact between the Longjiayuan and Xunjiansi formations in Xunjiansi Town, Luonan County, representing a characteristic low-energy intertidal depositional system. This facies is dominated by alternating siltstones and silicified banded dolostones, with subordinate silty mudstones exhibiting well-developed horizontal bedding (Figure 3i), indicative of quiescent depositional conditions. Isolated sandy lenses encased within muddy matrices display distinct flattened geometries with sharp lithological boundaries (Figure 3c). The sedimentary architecture suggests intermittent weak tidal influences, devoid of high-energy hydraulic reworking signatures. The predominance of argillaceous components, coupled with pervasive horizontal bedding and lensoid sandbody distributions, collectively confirms its classification as a mudflat subfacies within the mixed tidal flat depositional system.

  5. Tidal flat facies

    The tidal flat facies in the study area, exemplified by the Xunjiansi Town section in Luonan County, represents a typical carbonate tidal flat environment with distinct tidal zonation [36,37]. In the subtidal zone, thick-bedded stromatolitic limestone dominates (Figure 2e), interbedded with micritic dolomite and chert-banded dolomite (Figure 2i). The discontinuous, bedding-parallel chert bands are likely associated with syndepositional silicification or diagenetic hydrothermal silica infiltration. The continuous wavy laminations within stromatolites reflect periodic microbial mat growth and carbonate precipitation in low-energy subtidal conditions. The intertidal zone, observed in the Luonan Provincial Highway 202 section, features columnar stromatolitic dolomite (Figure 2f and g) with upward-convex hemispherical laminations, indicative of microbial-sediment interactions under moderate tidal currents. Argillaceous dolomite in this zone exhibits horizontal laminations and small-scale ripple marks. In the supratidal zone, as evidenced by core samples from Well ZT-1, intraclastic dolomite displays herringbone cross-bedding with bedset thicknesses of 30–50 cm, characteristic of high-energy tidal channel deposits. This vertical and lateral facies differentiation systematically records hydrodynamic gradients and paleoenvironmental transitions within the tidal flat system (Table 2).

Table 2

The types and basis of sedimentary facies division of the mesoproterozoic erathem in the ordos basin

Sedimentary facies type Basis for division
Rift sandstone-shale-effusive rock facies The lithology of the Luonan section is pseudomylonite and other basalts, with sedimentary structures including amygdaloidal and vesicular structures
Fluvial facies Lenticular sandstones and ripple marks develop in the Luonan section; large-scale cross-beddings are found in Subaigou of Wuhai City and Baisikou of Yinchuan City. The lithology is generally conglomerate and sandstone
Shoreline sandstone facies The Luonan section develops herringbone cross-beddings, inclined beddings, beach bars and sandstone lenticles; the lithology is mainly sandstone
Mixed sedimentary tidal flat facies Horizontal beddings and sandy lenticles are found in the Luonan section; the lithology consists of siltstone and siliceous banded dolomite
Tidal flat facies Stromatolites and laminated structures can be seen in the Luonan section

5 Discussion

5.1 Vertical evolution characteristics of sedimentary facies

The study area is situated along National Highway 242 between Shimenzhen and Xunjianzhen in the Luonan region, southern margin of the North China Craton. A continuous Mesoproterozoic stratigraphic sequence, commencing near Huanglongpu Village, occupies the northern limb of a syncline (Figure 4). The basal Changcheng System exhibits an overlap unconformity with the underlying Taihua Group. Measured stratigraphic sections document a complete depositional transition from continental to marine environments.

Figure 4 Comprehensive stratigraphic column of Luonan section.
Figure 4

Comprehensive stratigraphic column of Luonan section.

The Changcheng System (Biegaizi, Erdaohe, and Chenjiajian Formations, ascending order) records a pronounced transgressive event. Its facies assemblage delineates a clear evolutionary pathway: Large-scale trough cross-bedding, asymmetric wave ripples, and lenticular sandbodies within the Biegaizi Formation signify a meandering fluvial system. Up-section, desiccation cracks, herringbone cross-bedding, tidal rhythmites, and algal mat structures within the quartz sandstone-dolomitic sandstone rhythmic beds of the Erdaohe Formation collectively indicate a barrier island-controlled tidal flat environment. The overlying Chenjiajian Formation, characterized by highly mature quartz sandstones with low-angle wedge-shaped cross-bedding and localized pebbly sandstone lenses, reflects wave-dominated shoreface deposition. This complete vertical succession – fluvial → tidal flat → shoreface – documents a major land-to-sea paleogeographic shift driven by marine transgression.

Conformably overlying the Changcheng System, the Jixian System (Longjiayuan, Xunjiansi, Duguan, and Fengjiawan Formations; a depositional hiatus exists between the Longjiayuan and Xunjiansi Formations) is dominated by thick dolostone successions, marking the establishment of a persistent carbonate platform system. Laterally linked domal, columnar, and conical stromatolites, alongside birdseye structures, tepee structures, and tidal rhythmites, are diagnostic of periodically exposed intertidal-supratidal environments. Frequent intercalations of thin-bedded/banded chert and black shale record deeper-water deposition within the platform interior. Phosphorus-nodule-bearing siliceous slate at the top of the Duguan Formation potentially signifies localized upwelling influence.

Integrated sequence analysis reveals significant cyclicity in the Mesoproterozoic vertical evolution of the Luonan area: The Changcheng Period constitutes a retrogradational transgressive cycle (siliciclastic-dominated), while the Jixian Period evolved into a mature carbonate platform depositional regime. This fundamental transition from siliciclastic to carbonate dominance correlates strongly with Mesoproterozoic rifting along the southern North China Craton margin. Early continental deposition in the Changcheng System reflects vigorous sediment supply during the initial rift phase topography development. Subsequent marine deposition corresponds to basin widening and major transgression driven by continued lithospheric extension. Ultimately, stable subsidence during the Jixian Period culminated in the establishment of a mature carbonate platform system. This well-preserved depositional evolution provides a critical record for understanding tectono-sedimentary responses to Mesoproterozoic intracratonic rifting within the North China Craton [38].

5.2 Lateral distribution characteristics of sedimentary facies

Based on regional sedimentary facies research and vertical profile characteristics, the Mesoproterozoic Changcheng System in this area exhibits an east-west facies differentiation: fluvial facies, shoreface sandstone facies, and rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies associations develop sequentially from east to west. In contrast, the Jixian System displays a west-east facies transition, evolving from shelf facies in the west to tidal flat and mixed siliciclastic-carbonate tidal flat facies eastward. Well-seismic joint calibration reveals distinct seismic reflection patterns (Figure 5): the shoreface sandstone facies exhibits high-continuity reflections characterized by clear and stable coherent events, prominent reflection interfaces, and a combination of medium-high amplitude and moderate frequency. The shelf facies in the eastern L-45 well area shows wavy-parallel seismic configurations with stable amplitudes (medium-high) and lower frequencies. Tidal flat facies in the same region display banded reflections with reduced amplitude (medium-low) and increased frequency. The mixed tidal flat facies in the L-44 well area features undulating wavy structures, where abrupt lithological changes generate strong reflection interfaces, accompanied by lower frequencies but continuous coherent events, presenting a medium-high amplitude and medium-low frequency seismic signature. These seismic attributes systematically correlate with lithofacies variations, providing robust constraints for delineating spatiotemporal sedimentary patterns in the Mesoproterozoic succession.

Figure 5 Interpretation of seismic sedimentary facies of Line 1 of Changcheng System – Jixian System in the Ordos area (The location of the seismic survey line is shown in Figure 1).
Figure 5

Interpretation of seismic sedimentary facies of Line 1 of Changcheng System – Jixian System in the Ordos area (The location of the seismic survey line is shown in Figure 1).

Provenance system analysis indicates that the sedimentation of the Changcheng-Jixian systems was controlled by the western source area, with detrital materials being unloaded eastward through the Qin-Jin and Qin-Yu rift zones. This process generated a complete facies succession transitioning from coastal sandstone facies → mixed tidal flat facies → tidal flat facies → shallow marine shelf facies, with each facies belt exhibiting submeridional (nearly north-south) band-like distribution. Within the rift zones (e.g., Well Y-89-Y-91 area), rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies dominate (Figure 5), characterized by extensive distribution and lithological homogeneity, where interbedded sandstone and volcanic rocks form typical rift-related depositional assemblages. Through lateral correlation of sub-member sedimentary facies and calibration of seismic facies boundaries, the planar distribution extents of these Facies belts have been effectively delineated, enabling the prediction of favorable beach bar development zones in undrilled areas.

Integrated analysis of Mesoproterozoic sedimentary evolution and seismic stratigraphy in the Ordos Basin reveals prominent sedimentary facies differentiation in the QS-1 to HT-2 well area. High-resolution 3D seismic data interpretation (Figure 6) indicates that fluvial depositional systems exhibit discontinuous lenticular reflection configurations with low-to-medium amplitude and high-frequency seismic parameters, which align with the rapid accumulation features of braided river systems. The mid-ramp facies display continuous coherent events, characterized by parallel to subparallel reflection configurations and sheet-like geometries, with medium-to-high amplitude and medium-to-low frequency seismic responses, reflecting rhythmic sedimentation in stable depositional environments.

Figure 6 Interpretation of seismic sedimentary facies of Line 4 of Changcheng System – Jixian System in the Ordos area (The location of the seismic survey line is shown in Figure 1).
Figure 6

Interpretation of seismic sedimentary facies of Line 4 of Changcheng System – Jixian System in the Ordos area (The location of the seismic survey line is shown in Figure 1).

Through integrated well-seismic inversion and sequence stratigraphic correlation (Figure 6), three major rift structural units are identified on the north-south seismic profiles: the Ning-Meng Rift Belt, Gan-Shan Rift Belt, and Jin-Shan Rift Belt, developed sequentially from north to south. These rift belts, genetically linked to the structural framework revealed by Line 1, constitute critical components of the Mesoproterozoic rift system. Their infill sequences exhibit typical alternations of rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies. Sequence stratigraphic correlations demonstrate a complete north-to-south facies transition in the Changcheng System: braided fluvial facies dominate around the northern rift belt, transitioning southward to shoreface sandstone facies. The Jixian System displays more complex facies differentiation: mixed tidal flat facies primarily distribute along structural transition zones, grading southward into typical tidal flat, mid-ramp, and deep-water shelf facies. The controlling effect of rift belts on sedimentary facies distribution became particularly pronounced during the Jixian Period.

Further analysis indicates that sustained activity of these rift belts resulted in a unique “fault-sag transition” depositional model in the study area. Combined with regional geological data, this tectono-sedimentary coupling relationship provides critical constraints for reconstructing the Mesoproterozoic rifting process of the Ordos Craton while establishing a reliable depositional framework for deep hydrocarbon reservoir prediction [39,40].

5.3 Integrated well-seismic constrained planar distribution of sedimentary facies

5.3.1 Changcheng system

By the end of the Paleoproterozoic, the basement of the North China Craton had formed. During the Mesoproterozoic, as the Columbia supercontinent disintegrated, multiple rift troughs developed inward along the Ordos margin, depositing a sequence dominated by sandstone, shale, and volcanic rocks [41,42]. The basin itself exhibits a structural pattern of greater thickness in the west and south, thinning eastward and northward. Stratigraphic thickness varies significantly, with the northern margin showing a gradual thickening trend from south to north. The Changcheng System within the rift reaches up to 3,000 m in thickness but thins northeastward until pinching out [43]. Notably, the Changcheng System is absent in the Shenmu-Suide area of the eastern basin, indicating incomplete coverage across the entire basin (Figure 7a).

Figure 7 (a) Planar distribution map of sedimentary facies of the Changcheng System in the Ordos Basin and peripheral regions; (b) planar distribution map of sedimentary facies of the Jixian System in the Ordos Basin and peripheral regions.
Figure 7

(a) Planar distribution map of sedimentary facies of the Changcheng System in the Ordos Basin and peripheral regions; (b) planar distribution map of sedimentary facies of the Jixian System in the Ordos Basin and peripheral regions.

Under a regional extensional tectonic regime, the Jixian Period sedimentary system of the Ordos Basin exhibits pronounced tectono-sedimentary coupling mechanisms governed by the reactivation of basement faults and rift basin evolution [44]. Notably, stratigraphic thickness demonstrates abrupt lateral variations from 3,500 m in the southern Baoji area to complete stratigraphic pinch-out northeastward toward Jingbian–Shenmu sectors, delineating a structural framework characterized by rift shoulder uplift and intra-basin differential subsidence. Intensive syn-rift faulting during this interval induced dramatic paleotopographic gradient transitions, facilitating the development of a paralic rift basin succession with distinctive sedimentary architecture. Within the Zhenyuan–Huanxian eastern to Guyuan–Luochuan southern rift depression belt, rift-related clastic-volcanic facies dominated by rapidly accumulated syn-rift sandstones prevail, intercalated with syndepositional volcanic eruptive layers along tectonic mobile zones demarcating active fault boundaries. Northeastward attenuation of rift dynamics is evidenced by a 50–60 km wide littoral sandstone facies belt in Yinchuan–Chengchuan sectors, where wave-reworked mature sandstones accumulated under relatively stable rift margin conditions. Proximal to the denudational paleo-uplift in Wushenqi–Yulin areas, fluvial deposits occur as isolated sedimentary bodies with provenances constrained by the persistent uplift of the northeastern Ordos Paleo-landmass. The overall facies distribution manifests a stepwise differentiation pattern typical of fault-bounded basins, sequentially transitioning from rift facies through littoral facies to fluvial facies along the SW-NE transect from the Longxian rift center toward the paleo-uplift. Facies belt widths exhibit systematic variations modulated by spacing of syndepositional faults (Figure 7a), comprehensively documenting sedimentary responses during the fault-depression transition phase of rift basin evolution [45].

5.3.2 Jixian system

During the Jixian Period in the Ordos region, the marine transgression continued to expand eastward and northward, with deposition predominantly concentrated in the southern, southwestern, and western margins of the study area. Sedimentation was limited in the northwestern and northern margins and largely absent in the eastern margin (Figure 7b), exhibiting reduced depositional extent and stratigraphic thickness compared to the Changcheng Period. The environment was dominated by shallow-water carbonate tidal flat deposition. Water depth increased westward and southward, accompanied by greater stratigraphic thickness [46]. In the northern Wuhai Qianlishan section along the western basin margin, pebbly sandy dolomite is observed at the base of the Jixian Wangquankou Formation, with significantly reduced terrigenous input. In the Qinglongshan area, the Wangquankou Formation comprises a carbonate succession dominated by siliceous band- or nodule-bearing dolomite, locally interbedded with minor quartz sandstone. Northward toward the Helan Mountains and Inner Mongolia’s Zhuozishan area, the upper strata contain increased clastic content with diminishing thickness northward, including glauconitic quartz sandstone interbeds. From Luonan in the southern basin to Qingyang, Huanxian, and further north to Suyukou, the overall paleo-slope was gentle, with shallow water depths characteristic of carbonate tidal flat environments. Four distinct facies belts are distributed from the paleo-uplift to the outer basin margin: mixed tidal flat, tidal flat, mid-ramp, and shelf. These facies belts parallel the paleo-shoreline with variable widths. The mixed tidal flat facies is narrowly developed (several to tens of kilometers wide), while the tidal flat facies spans 60–80 km. The mid-ramp facies extend through Luonan, Qishan, Huating, Pingliang, the Daluo–Xiaoluo Mountains, and Qingtongxia. The shelf facies occupies the southern, southwestern, and western margins of the Ordos Basin, distributed south and west of Xi’an–Baoji–Huating–Pingliang–Zhongning (Figure 7b).

6 Conclusion

  1. The Meso-Neoproterozoic tectono-sedimentary evolution exhibits distinct stage-specific and differential characteristics. During the Changcheng Period, the basin developed a rift trough-controlled depositional framework with a north-high, south-low paleogeographic configuration, dominated by rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies, as well as shoreface sandstone and fluvial facies. In contrast, the Jixian Period transitioned to a tidal flat-dominated carbonate depositional system, reflecting the basin’s tectonic transformation from a rift setting to a passive continental margin.

  2. The spatiotemporal differentiation of sedimentary facies is controlled by tectonic evolution and paleogeographic frameworks. In the Changcheng System, rift-related sandstone-shale and volcanic eruption facies dominate the southwestern margin, transitioning northeastward to shoreface sandstone and fluvial facies. The Jixian System exhibits a banded facies distribution, with shelf facies, mid-ramp facies, tidal flat facies, and mixed tidal flat facies sequentially developed from southwest to northeast, systematically reflecting hydrodynamic gradients and depositional responses to regional subsidence patterns.

  3. Comparative analysis with the Anyue Gas Field in the Sichuan Basin demonstrates that the Meso-Neoproterozoic strata of the Ordos Basin possess analogous hydrocarbon source rock potential. The dark marine mudstone/shale of the Changcheng System and the algal dolomite of the Jixian System platform facies constitute critical source-reservoir assemblages. Notably, fluvial channel sandstones and tidal flat dolomite reservoirs exhibit superior reservoir properties, representing priority targets for future exploration.

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the journal editors and reviewers.

  1. Funding information: The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. The current study is funded by a major science and technology project of PetroChina Changqing Oilfield Company, “Comprehensive Interpretation and Basic Geological Research of Ordos Basin Seismic Framework and Large Section” (Grant No. 2023DZZ02). The funder was not involved in the study design, collection, analysis, interpretation of data, the writing of this article, or the decision to submit it for publication.

  2. Author contributions: Longhui Gao conceptualized the paper framework, conducted data analysis, and interpreted the results and discussion. Qingshao Liang and Jingchun Tian assisted in obtaining data and performing calculations. Longhui Gao, Qingshao Liang, and Feng Wang participated in the field geological survey. Longhui Gao, Qingshao Liang, and Xianghui Jing drew the figures and participated in the revision of the paper. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

  3. Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Received: 2025-06-16
Revised: 2025-07-29
Accepted: 2025-08-18
Published Online: 2025-10-04

© 2025 the author(s), published by De Gruyter

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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  93. YOLO-MC: An algorithm for early forest fire recognition based on drone image
  94. Earthquake building damage classification based on full suite of Sentinel-1 features
  95. Potential landslide detection and influencing factors analysis in the upper Yellow River based on SBAS-InSAR technology
  96. Assessing green area changes in Najran City, Saudi Arabia (2013–2022) using hybrid deep learning techniques
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  99. Streamlining digital elevation model construction from historical aerial photographs: The impact of reference elevation data on spatial accuracy
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  101. A metaverse-based visual analysis approach for 3D reservoir models
  102. Late Quaternary record of 100 ka depositional cycles on the Larache shelf (NW Morocco)
  103. Integrated well-seismic analysis of sedimentary facies distribution: A case study from the Mesoproterozoic, Ordos Basin, China
  104. Study on the spatial equilibrium of cultural and tourism resources in Macao, China
  105. Urban road surface condition detecting and integrating based on the mobile sensing framework with multi-modal sensors
  106. Application of improved sine cosine algorithm with chaotic mapping and novel updating methods for joint inversion of resistivity and surface wave data
  107. The synergistic use of AHP and GIS to assess factors driving forest fire potential in a peat swamp forest in Thailand
  108. Dynamic response analysis and comprehensive evaluation of cement-improved aeolian sand roadbed
  109. Rock control on evolution of Khorat Cuesta, Khorat UNESCO Geopark, Northeastern Thailand
  110. Gradient response mechanism of carbon storage: Spatiotemporal analysis of economic-ecological dimensions based on hybrid machine learning
  111. Comparison of several seismic active earth pressure calculation methods for retaining structures
  112. Mantle dynamics and petrogenesis of Gomer basalts in the Northwestern Ethiopia: A geochemical perspective
  113. Study on ground deformation monitoring in Xiong’an New Area from 2021 to 2023 based on DS-InSAR
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  115. Equipping the integral approach with generalized least squares to reconstruct relict channel profile and its usage in the Shanxi Rift, northern China
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  118. Maps analysis of Najran City, Saudi Arabia to enhance agricultural development using hybrid system of ANN and multi-CNN models
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  121. Remote sensing and machine learning for lithology and mineral detection in NW, Pakistan
  122. Spatial–temporal variations of NO2 pollution in Shandong Province based on Sentinel-5P satellite data and influencing factors
  123. Numerical modeling of geothermal energy piles with sensitivity and parameter variation analysis of a case study
  124. Stability analysis of valley-type upstream tailings dams using a 3D model
  125. Variation characteristics and attribution analysis of actual evaporation at monthly time scale from 1982 to 2019 in Jialing River Basin, China
  126. Investigating machine learning and statistical approaches for landslide susceptibility mapping in Minfeng County, Xinjiang
  127. Investigating spatiotemporal patterns for comprehensive accessibility of service facilities by location-based service data in Nanjing (2016–2022)
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  129. Study on the formation mechanism of the hard-shell layer of liquefied silty soil
  130. Comprehensive analysis of agricultural CEE: Efficiency assessment, mechanism identification, and policy response – A case study of Anhui Province
  131. Simulation study on the damage and failure mechanism of the surrounding rock in sanded dolomite tunnels
  132. Towards carbon neutrality: Spatiotemporal evolution and key influences on agricultural ecological efficiency in Northwest China
  133. Review Articles
  134. Humic substances influence on the distribution of dissolved iron in seawater: A review of electrochemical methods and other techniques
  135. Applications of physics-informed neural networks in geosciences: From basic seismology to comprehensive environmental studies
  136. Ore-controlling structures of granite-related uranium deposits in South China: A review
  137. Shallow geological structure features in Balikpapan Bay East Kalimantan Province – Indonesia
  138. A review on the tectonic affinity of microcontinents and evolution of the Proto-Tethys Ocean in Northeastern Tibet
  139. Advancements in machine learning applications for mineral prospecting and geophysical inversion: A review
  140. Special Issue: Natural Resources and Environmental Risks: Towards a Sustainable Future - Part II
  141. Depopulation in the Visok micro-region: Toward demographic and economic revitalization
  142. Special Issue: Geospatial and Environmental Dynamics - Part II
  143. Advancing urban sustainability: Applying GIS technologies to assess SDG indicators – a case study of Podgorica (Montenegro)
  144. Spatiotemporal and trend analysis of common cancers in men in Central Serbia (1999–2021)
  145. Minerals for the green agenda, implications, stalemates, and alternatives
  146. Spatiotemporal water quality analysis of Vrana Lake, Croatia
  147. Functional transformation of settlements in coal exploitation zones: A case study of the municipality of Stanari in Republic of Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
  148. Hypertension in AP Vojvodina (Northern Serbia): A spatio-temporal analysis of patients at the Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina
  149. Regional patterns in cause-specific mortality in Montenegro, 1991–2019
  150. Spatio-temporal analysis of flood events using GIS and remote sensing-based approach in the Ukrina River Basin, Bosnia and Herzegovina
  151. Flash flood susceptibility mapping using LiDAR-Derived DEM and machine learning algorithms: Ljuboviđa case study, Serbia
  152. Geocultural heritage as a basis for geotourism development: Banjska Monastery, Zvečan (Serbia)
  153. Assessment of groundwater potential zones using GIS and AHP techniques – A case study of the zone of influence of Kolubara Mining Basin
  154. Impact of the agri-geographical transformation of rural settlements on the geospatial dynamics of soil erosion intensity in municipalities of Central Serbia
  155. Where faith meets geomorphology: The cultural and religious significance of geodiversity explored through geospatial technologies
  156. Applications of local climate zone classification in European cities: A review of in situ and mobile monitoring methods in urban climate studies
  157. Complex multivariate water quality impact assessment on Krivaja River
  158. Ionization hotspots near waterfalls in Eastern Serbia’s Stara Planina Mountain
  159. Shift in landscape use strategies during the transition from the Bronze age to Iron age in Northwest Serbia
  160. Assessing the geotourism potential of glacial lakes in Plav, Montenegro: A multi-criteria assessment by using the M-GAM model
  161. Flash flood potential index at national scale: Susceptibility assessment within catchments
  162. SWAT modelling and MCDM for spatial valuation in small hydropower planning
https://doi.org/10.1515/geo-2025-0885
Keywords for this article
sedimentary facies; sedimentary evolution; mesoproterozoic; ordos basin
Creative Commons
BY 4.0

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  113. Study on ground deformation monitoring in Xiong’an New Area from 2021 to 2023 based on DS-InSAR
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  115. Equipping the integral approach with generalized least squares to reconstruct relict channel profile and its usage in the Shanxi Rift, northern China
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  138. A review on the tectonic affinity of microcontinents and evolution of the Proto-Tethys Ocean in Northeastern Tibet
  139. Advancements in machine learning applications for mineral prospecting and geophysical inversion: A review
  140. Special Issue: Natural Resources and Environmental Risks: Towards a Sustainable Future - Part II
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  142. Special Issue: Geospatial and Environmental Dynamics - Part II
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  144. Spatiotemporal and trend analysis of common cancers in men in Central Serbia (1999–2021)
  145. Minerals for the green agenda, implications, stalemates, and alternatives
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  147. Functional transformation of settlements in coal exploitation zones: A case study of the municipality of Stanari in Republic of Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
  148. Hypertension in AP Vojvodina (Northern Serbia): A spatio-temporal analysis of patients at the Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina
  149. Regional patterns in cause-specific mortality in Montenegro, 1991–2019
  150. Spatio-temporal analysis of flood events using GIS and remote sensing-based approach in the Ukrina River Basin, Bosnia and Herzegovina
  151. Flash flood susceptibility mapping using LiDAR-Derived DEM and machine learning algorithms: Ljuboviđa case study, Serbia
  152. Geocultural heritage as a basis for geotourism development: Banjska Monastery, Zvečan (Serbia)
  153. Assessment of groundwater potential zones using GIS and AHP techniques – A case study of the zone of influence of Kolubara Mining Basin
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  155. Where faith meets geomorphology: The cultural and religious significance of geodiversity explored through geospatial technologies
  156. Applications of local climate zone classification in European cities: A review of in situ and mobile monitoring methods in urban climate studies
  157. Complex multivariate water quality impact assessment on Krivaja River
  158. Ionization hotspots near waterfalls in Eastern Serbia’s Stara Planina Mountain
  159. Shift in landscape use strategies during the transition from the Bronze age to Iron age in Northwest Serbia
  160. Assessing the geotourism potential of glacial lakes in Plav, Montenegro: A multi-criteria assessment by using the M-GAM model
  161. Flash flood potential index at national scale: Susceptibility assessment within catchments
  162. SWAT modelling and MCDM for spatial valuation in small hydropower planning
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