Geologic sections across the onshore Senegal–Mauritania basin derived from geoelectric studies

On the basis of magnetotelluric two-dimensional models along three traverses, the regional electrical structure within the Senegal–Mauritania basin sediments has been studied. Correlation of the computed models with the wells drilled in the region shows that the main gross lithologic units were detected. The models can be generalized into three resistivity layers: (i) post-Turonian; (ii) pre-Senonian; and (iii) basement. In the southern part of the basin, there are relatively conductive formations below the Mesozoic that are interpreted as sediments of the Paleozoic Bove basin sequence. By combining the information that has been provided by the geoelectric cross sections and the lithologic and electric log data, a schematic model for the generalized sedimentary structure of Senegal has been generated. The interpretation that emerges shows that the basin is a westward-sloping, open homocline in which the structure is controlled by north–south-trending basement faulting that portrays a staircase structural style.