Further palynology of drillhole NTGS BR05DD01 (Unapproachable 1:100 000 Sheet; Bloods Range 1:250 000 Sheet) Amadeus Basin, Northern Territory, Australia

Abstract

Part of drillhole NTGS BR05DD01 (a section probably correlative with the 'Finke beds'), held in the NTGS core library in Alice Springs, Northern Territory), was examined and sampled by Kath Grey, Peter Haines and Heidi-Jane Allen in March 2014 as part of ongoing studies of the Amadeus Basin by the Geological Survey of Western Australia. Three palynological samples were prepared using modified Proterozoic maceration techniques. Examination indicates that all samples are barren of identifiable palynomorphs, although some organic material is present. Preparation problems recently encountered during the maceration of other Proterozoic samples now appear to have been resolved. Although nothing biostratigraphically diagnostic was obtained, the presence of amorphogen (fluffy kerogen) in one sample is worthy of note because this indicates that assemblages have reached maximum burial depths and temperatures consistent with hydrocarbon generation.