Marine hydrocarbon seeps

Marine hydrocarbon seeps are natural underwater locations where gases like methane or liquids such as crude oil naturally escape from the Earth's crust into the ocean. These seeps occur due to geological processes and are often found along continental margins and seafloor faults. They provide energy sources for unique ecosystems of specialized microbes and animals that thrive on these hydrocarbons. While some seeps are natural, they can also be influenced or affected by human activities like oil extraction. Overall, they are important natural features that contribute to the ocean's chemical composition and support diverse marine life.