Multi-Spheric Interactions and Hydrocarbon Enrichment Mechanisms in Tarim Basin

The Tarim Basin, China's largest petroliferous basin, represents a critical hydrocarbon province. From the perspective of Earth's multi-sphere interactions, this study systematically deciphers three-phase extension-compression cycles driven by deep-seated dynamics. By defining the controlling effects of plate drift, regional tectonic evolution, and paleoclimatological changes on hydrocarbon accumulation elements, we reveal that: Cambrian-Ordovician marine source rocks formed under global transgressions，the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) and intense weathering since the Cambrian; Permian-Triassic transitional facies and Jurassic continental source rocks developed during regressive phases with evolving fluvial-lacustrine systems. Our findings demonstrate that sea-level fluctuations (governed by deep dynamics), climate-modulated weathering regimes, and drainage evolution collectively regulate source rock properties, reservoir-seal stratigraphy, and lithology, generating distinct source-reservoir-seal assemblages. Tectonic burial coupled with fault-mediated migration pathways jointly control hydrocarbon generation, migration, and accumulation. Regional structural activity induces differential uplift-subsidence and paleo-uplift formation, partitioning the basin into three primary hydrocarbon plays: the platform-basin area, Kuqa Depression, and southwestern Tarim region. Future research should advance multi-sphere interaction studies to reassess hydrocarbon enrichment mechanisms in the underexplored southwestern Tarim, with parallel investigation of coal-derived natural gas associated with coal-bearing source rocks, thereby providing theoretical foundations for enhanced hydrocarbon exploration and development.