Microfacies analyses and stable isotope geochemistry of jeribe formation exposed at Zahko in the northwestern part of Iraq

Microfacies analysis and δ13C and δ 18O stable isotopes were studied in Jeribe Formation (Middle Miocene) within two sections (Zakho Tunnel and Kwashe village) within the Bekhair anticline of Zakho area Northwestern region of Iraq. The studied sections comprise mainly shallow marine limestone deposits with clayey limestone and dolomite interclations. Based on the detailed microfacies analyses, five distinct microfacies types have been identified, including coated bioclastic grainstone (MF-1), bioclastic packstone to grainstone (MF-2), peloidal packstone (MF-3), bindstone (MF-4), mudstone (MF-5) characterizing distinct depositional belts covering from backshoal, shoal to foreshoal. The stable isotopic compositions of the Jeribe Formation bulk carbonate rocks provide insights into past marine conditions. These isotopic variations suggest depositional processes like cementation and organic carbon cycling, including burial and remineralization.