Talos Energy has started its appraisal programme at the Zama discovery off Mexico.

The US independent’s campaign has begun with the Zama-2 well being drilled by the semi-submersible Ensco 8503. The probe will be drilled north of the initial discovery well to look to confirm the oil-water contact.

After reaching its main objective, Zama-2 will be deepened about 500 metres below the main target to test the Marte exploration prospect, to be followed by an up-dip vertical sidetrack and planned drillstem test.