Palynological and sequence stratigraphic analysis of the Napo Group in the Pungarayacu 30 well, Sub-Andean Zone, Ecuador

The study of palynomorphs and calcareous nannofossils from the Albian–Campanian Napo Group in the Pungarayacu 30 well in the Subandean Zone of Ecuador has led to a new biostratigraphic framework revealing the existence of several hiatuses for this area. The palynological and palynofacies data are used together with other fossils and lithological evidence to define a sequence stratigraphic framework. The distribution of palynomorphs and palynofacies indicates a strong terrestrial input for the lower part of the Napo Group (Napo Basal and Lower Napo formations). In the upper part (Middle and Upper Napo formations), terrestrial input is reduced and a restricted marine environment with several dysoxic–anoxic intervals can be inferred. The hydrocarbons present in the well studied have traditionally been regarded as locally sourced. However, several lines of evidence (TAS, Tmax and VR) prove the immature stage of the source rock in this borehole as well as in a larger area.