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1 Centre for Palynology, University of Sheffield, Dainton Building, Brook Hill, Sheffield S3 7HF, UK
2 Department of Geology and Geophysics, Grant Institute, University of Edinburgh, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JW, UK
Palynology represents the standard tool for subsurface biostratigraphical correlation of Euramerican Late Carboniferous sequences. While palynomorphs are usually absent from sandstone lithologies, they form diverse and abundant assemblages in fine-grained sediments and coals. The occurrence of inter- and intrasandstone horizons that contain distinctive palynological assemblages forms the basis for the correlation and discrimination of sandstone reservoirs, and the application of palynology to development drilling programmes. The successful application of development palynology is contingent upon many factors related to geology (sandstone-body type, occurrence and lateral consistency of distinctive horizons, nature of intrareservoir units, degree of reservoir incision, etc.) and to practical constraints (such as the nature of databases, sampling strategies with ditch cuttings, standardization of preparation and data acquisition techniques, and time and cost limitations). The development palynologist needs to be critically aware of the existence of such constraints, and should limit the confidence attached to interpretations and predictions made accordingly.
