First 2D and 3D interpretative models of sedimentation in the Cretaceous Hama-koussou sedimentary basin: Litho-bio-stratigraphy and palaeoenvironment records

Abstract The Hama-Koussou Basin is one of the offset structures of the eastern end of the Benue Trough in Northern Cameroon. This sedimentary basin is an asymmetrical syncline whose axis is strongly shifted towards the East, filled predominantly with Cretaceous deposits, The basin has experienced at least three (3) phases of sedimentation during its geological history: two (2) fluvial phases with one at the top and the second at the bottom consisting of conglomerate, micro-conglomerate, and sandstone , sandwiching one fluvio-lacustrine phase consisting of fossiliferous claystones and marlstones with intercalations of siltstones and carbonate cemented fine sandstone. Numerous sedimentary structures including planar, oblique, and cross stratifications, convolute bedding, desiccation cracks, ripple marks and loadcast have been recorded. The mineral assemblage is dominated by quartz, plagioclase , mica and microcline , accompagnied by diagenetic phases (iron oxide, silica and carbonate). Clay minerals consist of kaolinite , illite and chlorite/smectite. Palynofloral analysis reveals various taxa indicative of a fluvio-lacustrine environment: These include Classopollis sp., Eucommiidites sp., Concavisporites sp., Cicatricosisporites sp, Araucariacites australis, Callialasporites dampieri, Callialasporites microvelatus. The occurrence of Callialasporites microvelatus confirms the Cretaceous age whereas age determination for all other samples was uncertain due to scarcity in palynomorphs . Low numbers of bisaccate, grass, and other angiosperm pollen grains may be indicative of a Cenozoic or younger age, although contamination by modern pollens cannot be excluded.The region experienced volcanism represented by explosive and effusive phases, recorded as sills and dykes. Plutonism is characterized by the establishment of intrusive granite . The East-West elongation observed in the HSB is the same in the Mayo-Oulo-Lere and Babouri Figuil basins and can be interpreted as the result of the same tectonic event linked to the opening of the Atlantic Ocean resulting in the formation of the Benue Trough and adjoins basins.