Scientists have discovered the largest coral ever recorded in the Solomon Islands in the southwest Pacific Ocean. This massive coral, estimated to be over 300 years old, spans an impressive 34 meters in width, 32 meters in length, and stands 5.5 meters tall—making it larger than a blue whale. Unlike coral reefs, this coral is a single, connected organism formed by countless tiny creatures.

The discovery was made by a National Geographic team exploring remote areas of the Pacific to study climate change impacts. Manu San Félix, a videographer and diver on the team, described the coral as an “underwater cathedral,” emphasising the deep respect he felt for its resilience over centuries.

The coral species, Pavona clavus, shelters diverse marine life like shrimp, crabs, and fish. Its location in slightly deeper waters may have shielded it from the warming sea temperatures affecting shallower reefs nearby, which face degradation due to climate change.

Eric Brown, a coral scientist on the expedition, noted that this massive coral’s health offers hope amidst the global coral crisis, with recent reports showing 44% of warm-water coral species threatened with extinction. Solomon Islands' climate minister, Trevor Manemahaga, expressed pride in the discovery and underscored the need for protection and financial support to preserve such vital marine ecosystems.

This discovery coincides with global climate discussions at COP29, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect these invaluable natural resources.

Credits:
National Geographic
National Geographic Pristine Seas
BBC

Photograph by Manu San Félix, National Geographic Pristine Seas