Abstract This work uses seismic records to document and classify contourite features around the Iberian continental margin to determine their implications for depositional systems and petroleum exploration. Contourites include depositional features (separated, sheeted, plastered and confined drifts), erosional features (abraded surfaces, channels, furrows and moats) and mixed features (contourite terraces). Drifts generally show high- to moderate-amplitude reflectors, which are cyclically intercalated with transparent layers. Transparent layers may represent finer-grained deposits, which can serve as seal rocks. High-amplitude reflectors (HARs) are likely to represent sandier layers, which could form hydrocarbon reservoirs. HARs occur on erosive features (moats and channels), and are clearly developed on contourite terraces and overflow features. Most of the contourite features described here are influenced by Mediterranean water masses throughout their Pliocene and Quaternary history. They specifically record Mediterranean Outflow Water, following its exit through the Gibraltar Strait. This work gives a detailed report on the variation of modern contourite deposits, which can help inform ancient contourite reservoir interpretation. Further research correlating 2D and 3D seismic anomalies with core and well-logging data is needed to develop better diagnostic criteria for contourites. This can help to clarify the role of contourites in petroleum systems.

Abstract Late Pleistocene and Holocene depositional patterns of the Almeria Turbidite Channel (Alboran Sea, Western Mediterranean) were investigated using multi-proxy analyses of the sediment properties in seven cores from the proximal, medial, and distal channel depositional environments. Turbidites interbedded with hemipelagic facies during the Pleistocene and hemipelagic facies during the Holocene were found, with a recent turbidite event taking place later than 1.3 ka. In the Almeria region, Pleistocene turbidite emplacement was controlled by sea-level position and by the canyon–channel connection to the sediment loads provided by the Andarax River and three tributary valley systems. During the Holocene, the Almeria Channel gradually became inactive as sea level reached its present position. The most recent turbidite deposition is related to local tectonics and morphological factors at the canyon head.