A groundbreaking discovery has unveiled the world’s largest known coral, located in the waters of the Solomon Islands.
This massive multicolored organism, visible from space, measures an astonishing 183 meters in circumference and is estimated to be 300 to 500 years old.
Found in the biodiversity-rich “coral triangle” of the western Pacific, the coral, identified as Pavona clavus, serves as a sanctuary for diverse marine life, including fish, crabs, and shrimps.
The National Geographic Pristine Seas team discovered this colossal coral during an expedition. Enric Sala, marine ecologist and founder of Pristine Seas, described the find as “a significant scientific discovery, like finding the world’s tallest tree,” highlighting its ecological importance.
Unlike coral reefs, which are made up of interconnected coral colonies, this standalone coral is a single, genetically identical organism. It has grown undisturbed from polyps derived from larvae that settled on the seabed centuries ago.
This 300-500-year-old coral, discovered in the “coral triangle,” highlights the beauty and vulnerability of ocean ecosystems.Measuring 34 meters wide, 32 meters long, and over 5 meters tall, this extraordinary coral was initially mistaken for a shipwreck by the researchers.
The coral’s vibrant hues of brown, yellow, blue, and red make it a spectacle of nature.
However, this discovery also raises concerns about the threats it faces from global warming and human activities.
Sala warned that despite its remote location, this coral is not immune to environmental challenges.
The significance of the discovery extends beyond science. For the Solomon Islands, it underscores the vital role of their ocean ecosystems.
Ronnie Posala, a fisheries officer for the Solomon Islands fisheries ministry, emphasized that this coral symbolizes the importance of safeguarding marine environments, which are deeply tied to the region’s culture, traditions, and livelihoods.
The find also offers hope amidst global coral degradation.
Eric Brown, a coral scientist with Pristine Seas, noted that while many shallow reefs suffer due to rising sea temperatures, the healthy state of this coral in deeper waters is a beacon of resilience.
This discovery serves as a reminder of the need for global conservation efforts to protect such natural wonders, ensuring their survival for generations to come.