Lithological, structural study, and reconstruction of the paleoenvironment of the Tazalakht region

Abstract

The Tazalakht region, located in the western Anti-Atlas in Morocco, is the subject of an in-depth field study aimed at obtaining a detailed macroscopic field description, with the objectives of reconstructing the local paleoenvironment and determining the style of deformation that has marked the area. Field mapping is essential for understanding the composition of each facies and the associated style of deformation. This process involves several stages, from macroscopic descriptions to the determination of deformation style. The Tazalakht deposit consists of a quartzite base, unconformably overlain by a sedimentary cover. Beginning with monogenic conglomerates, followed by the Tata-Taroudant group, the Ouarzazate conglomerate is succeeded by the "Base Series", whose strength varies according to paleogeography and which forms the cover. This series begins with a breccia of angular quartzite elements, sometimes with decreasing granoclassing and a silty matrix associated with mineralization. The top of the basic series features alternating siltstones and sandstones, followed by carbonate formations such as Tamjout dolomite, dolomitic sandstones and, finally, lower limestones. Analysis of the sedimentary figures in these carbonate formations enables us to determine the paleoenvironment of the area, indicating the presence of a distal platform due to the stromatolites in the limestones. In terms of deformation, the Tata-Taroudant Group undergoes soft deformation, while brittle deformation is observed in the quartzite base and cover.