In 2007, scientists found giant underwater domes off California; the truth was stranger than anyone expected

Mysterious underwater domes off California were identified as ancient asphalt volcanoes. These formations originated from hardened crude oil and marine debris over centuries. The eruptions likely triggered methane releases and created vast ocean dead zones. However, these extinct structures provided rare hard habitats for deep-sea marine life. Scientists continue to study these formations and their impact on ancient ecosystems.