Description and depositional model of the Chandler Formation: A lower Cambrian evaporite and carbonate sequence, Amadeus Basin, central Australia

The Chandler Formation is a Lower Cambrian carbonate and evaaporite sequence in the Amadeus Basin, central Australia. The carbonate is widely distributed but thin, and is organic-rich, foetid, carbonate mudstone. The carbonate is dolomitized where associated with evaporites. The thick evaporite is almost totally composed of halite, and has bromine profiles suggesting a marine source. The depositional model proposed for the Chandler Formation is a shallow water, deep desiccated basin, analogous to the Messinian evaporites of the Mediterranean region. The carbonate and evaporite deposits represent distinct depositional phases in the evolution of the Chandler Formation, and three stages are recognized: desiccation and evaporite precipitation; basin flooding and carbonate deposition; and karstification and evaporite precipitation.