Tar Balls

Tar balls are small, dark, sticky lumps of weathered oil found in marine environments, usually formed from oil spills or natural seepage.  
Produced when crude oil undergoes weathering (evaporation, oxidation, mixing with sand/debris) in seawater, turning into semi-solid masses.  
Carried by ocean currents and waves, often washing ashore on beaches.  
Cause marine pollution, harm marine life, contaminate fisheries, and pose health risks to humans.