IMPACT OF OIL AND GAS VENTS AND SLICKS ON PETROLEUM-EXPLORATION IN THE DEEP-WATER GULF-OF-MEXICO

Active petroleum vents and slicks have been identified in the deep water of the northern Gulf of Mexico using numerous techniques. The occurrence and distribution of these petroleum vents are strongly influenced by the local geological framework - especially the presence of vertical migration pathways into shallow sediments. Oil and gas vents may be more useful for establishing the existence of petroleum generation on a regional scale and for evaluating the gross properties of oil migrating in the subsurface than for appraising the exploration value of individual prospects. Knowledge about petroleum venting in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico has proven to be an important element of the successful exploration activities there.