A team of scientists from the National Geographic Pristine Seas project has discovered the world’s largest known coral off the coast of the Solomon Islands in the Pacific Ocean, Al Jazeera reports.
This colossal organism, nicknamed the “mega coral,” stretches an impressive 32 meters long and 34 meters wide, making it roughly the size of two basketball courts.
The coral, a species known as Pavona clavus, is estimated to be around 300 years old and is characterized by its striking splashes of vibrant yellow, blue, and red against a predominantly brown backdrop. Its rippled surface, mimicking the ocean’s waves, further adds to its unique beauty.
While the coral appears as a giant rock from the surface, closer inspection reveals a vast network of coral polyps, tiny individual creatures that make up this monumental organism. Unlike reefs, which are collections of multiple coral colonies, this discovery represents a single, uninterrupted coral structure that has grown for centuries.
This remarkable find comes at a time of increasing concern over the global warming threat to coral reefs. The warming oceans have already caused widespread bleaching and death of coral populations, including the famed Great Barrier Reef. This “mega coral” serves as a reminder of the vital role coral plays as a habitat for a diverse array of marine life, from shrimp and crabs to fish.
Despite its remote location, this colossal coral is not immune to the effects of climate change. Researchers are concerned that the warming oceans could pose a threat to its survival.
This discovery underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and its devastating impact on marine ecosystems. It comes as delegates from 200 countries meet in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the United Nations climate summit (COP29).
