Geophysical characteristics of a focused fluid flow system in the western South China Sea

High-resolution multichannel seismic data and multibeam terrain data are used to analyse and identify a focused fluid flow (FFF) system in the central and northern parts of the Zhongjiannan Basin in the western South China Sea. The authors classify and summarise the geophysical characteristics of an FFF system in the study area. It is divided into a fault-related FFF system and a column-related FFF system. In addition, the FFF system in the study area is mainly located within the tectonic activity area, thin slope break belt and land slope area. The rich FFF system in the study area is an important channel for fluid migration, which is conducive to gas hydrate accumulation. The FFF system in the study area is poorly studied, and the distribution research results of the FFF system in this area can be used more widely in hydrocarbon and gas hydrate exploration and must be taken into account when assessing seabed stability.