Assessment of continental margin clinoform systems in the Sørvestsnaget Basin, western Barents Sea: from clinoform parameters towards paleo-water depth

2D seismic reflection data from the western Barents Sea are used to map and date the Plio–Pleistocene shelf edge clinoforms. The mapped clinoforms are qualitative and quantitatively analyzed to estimate the water depths during their deposition (herein referred as paleo-water depth = PWD). Three different estimates are presented based on trajectory analysis, and relative water depth reconstructions at the upper clinoforms (PWD wd) and lower roll-over points (PWD Hh). A new quantitative PWD reconstruction approach is suggested which is based on relationships between clinoform parameters obtained from global analysis of clinoform systems. The results indicate PWD wd of ca. 680 m to 1160 m and PWD Hh between 1640 and 3200 m. A comparison of all results revealed discrepancies between the relative PWD and the trajectory analysis results. These discrepancies can be related to the complex interplay between thermo-tectonic driven differential subsidence and climate driven glacial/interglacial changes in sediment supply. This is most evident for the Pleistocene clinothems P5, P6, and P7 when the relief along the north western continental margin of the Basin was modified. From clinoforms P5 to S, ice extended onto the continental shelf and drove margin progradation with an enhanced sediment supply from the continental hinterland. Thus, waxing and waning of the Northern Hemisphere ice sheets and associated changes in the sediment source to sink behavior contribute significantly to the present day preserved clinoform shapes. If further tested, the reconstruction scheme presented in this study might help to assess, analyze and understand the PWD of continental margin clinoforms, worldwide.