Abstract: Multi-stage distributary channels are generally developed in ramp region in continental fault basin and annularly distributed around hydrocarbon-generating basins, with good reservoir quality and source-reservoir-caprock assemblage conditions. If faults occur on updip distributary channels, their hydrocarbon-accumulating conditions will be more favorable. But it is absolutely difficult to study such distributary channel reservoirs, because they are characterized by multiple types, widespread distribution, highly hidden nature, multiple combinations between fault and channel and peculiar hydrocarbon-accumulating feature. Hence, the prerequisite for high efficiency prospecting of the distributary channel reservoirs will focus on precise determination of the distribution of channels, study one by one of the controlling factors of hydrocarbon accumulation and analysis layer by layer of the reservoir distribution. In view of analysis of sedimentary system, this paper elaborates the reservoir characteristic, the mechanism and regularity of hydrocarbon accumulation in distributary channels. The methods for such reservoir description would be as a guide for research of other similar types of reservoirs in different areas.

Key words: distributary channel, reservoir, sedimentary system, controlling factor, description