Researchers used seismic data to identify the buried fragment, which likely dates back hundreds of millions of years. The discovery helps explain how continents formed and broke apart over millions of years, offering new insight into North America’s geological history and the forces shaping Earth’s crust.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Torres Vedras Natural History Society;

Scientists found the ancient landmass along the Appalachian region, hidden just below the surface. The finding suggests remnants of ancient continents can persist deep underground, reshaping understanding of plate tectonics and Earth’s long-term geological evolution.