Seismic Attribute Analysis of Gas Hydrate Stability Zones in the Gulf of Mexico: Implications for Subsurface Fluid Flow and Sediment Deformation

Gas hydrates are ice-like compounds formed from water and methane under high-pressure, low-temperature conditions in marine sediments. They influence sediment stability, fluid flow, and hydrocarbon distribution in continental margin settings. This study employs advanced seismic attribute analysis to investigate the gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ) in the Gulf of Mexico and to assess the relationship between hydrate presence, subsurface fluid flow, and sediment deformation.Seismic attributes, including coherence, amplitude, and spectral decomposition, were applied to 3D seismic reflection datasets covering structurally complex regions of the northern Gulf of Mexico. These attributes were used to map bottom-simulating reflectors (BSRs), gas chimneys, and fault/fracture systems. Results indicate that gas hydrate stability zones are strongly associated with structural highs, fault intersections, and areas of enhanced deformation.The study finds that fault-controlled fluid pathways significantly influence hydrate distribution and sediment deformation patterns, highlighting the need to integrate seismic attribute analysis in hydrate resource assessment and geohazard evaluation. These findings provide new insights into fluid migration mechanisms and sediment dynamics in hydrate-bearing marine environments.