As the lower Palaeozoic carbonate reservoirs are complicated and diversified in Tarim basin, it is important to clarify the characteristics and types of the hydrocarbon reservoirs for exploration and development. Based on the types of oil and gas traps, theses reservoirs can be divided into 3 types, i.e. structural, stratigraphic-lithologic and composite ones, and they can be subdivided into 12 small types. Controlled by the local anticlinal traps, this type of structural reservoirs is characteristic of good reservoir quality, well lateral communication and uniform hydrocarbon distribution with obvious united oil/gas/water interfaces. The stratigraphic-lithologic reservoirs are the most in the basin, and can be subdivided into 3 subtypes that include weathered crust, reef-bank and dolomite ones. Controlled by reservoir property, this type of reservoirs is characteristic of variety, heterogeneity, considerable lateral changes and great nonuniformity, but withina same reservoir, there are similar fluid property, accordant P-T system and united oil/gas/water interfaces so that usually oil and/or gas output alters greatly. Controlled by both local traps and reservoir property, the type of composite reservoirs is characteristic of high and stable oil and/or gas output at the well-developed high location but low output and high percent of water yield in the lower location. Analysis of representative reservoirs for examples is shown that the different types of reservoirs are quite differential and the identical type of reservoirs are similar in characteristics. It is suggested that compatible means and technology of exploration and development should be taken for different types of carbonate reservoirs.