Abstract:

After summarizing previous research material of global giant oil and gas fields, the USGS data, and typical proto-type
basinal classification schemes, we classify the world’s 877 giant oil and gas fields and 153 main basins in which they are located.
In  this paper, we present  four maps and eight statistical histograms showing distributions of giant oil and gas  fields and basins
based on different basinal classification schemes. Basin types and distribution of global giant oil and gas fields are identified, and
then  the effects of different proto-type basin categories on  the distribution of giant oil and gas  fields are discussed. At  the same
time, considering the complex tectonic evolution of basins as well as their association with hydrocarbon accumulation, we attempt
to classify superimposed basins according to their tectonic transformation or inheritance characteristics. Our results indicate that
basins with positive inversion features are optimum for the formation of giant oil and gas fields; successor rift basins and successor
foreland basins are less prominent, leaving negative inversion basin type to the least option.