In a groundbreaking revelation, scientists have discovered the world’s largest known coral colony in the Solomon Islands, nestled in the southwest Pacific Ocean. This massive coral, which may be over 300 years old, was found thriving amidst the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation.
The coral was uncovered during a National Geographic expedition by marine biologist and explorer Manu San Felix. Sharing his experience, Felix described the moment as extraordinary: “I went diving in a place where the map said there was a shipwreck, and then I saw something—a cathedral underwater.”
The newly discovered coral, belonging to the species Pavona clavus, measures an astonishing 112 feet (34 meters) in width, 105 feet (32 meters) in length, and rises 18 feet (5.5 meters) from the ocean floor. It is so vast that it can reportedly be seen from space. This immense structure is composed of countless interconnected coral polyps, forming a habitat for diverse marine species, including shrimp, crabs, and fish.
Corals, often dubbed the “rainforests of the sea,” are vital for sustaining marine biodiversity. They protect coastlines from erosion, serve as breeding grounds for marine species, and support the livelihoods of over a billion people worldwide through fishing and tourism. However, these fragile ecosystems are under significant threat, particularly in regions like the Solomon Islands, where rising ocean temperatures and human activities such as logging jeopardize their existence.
This extraordinary coral owes its survival to its unique location in deeper, cooler waters, which have shielded it from the warming effects of climate change that have devastated shallow reefs. As shallow-water corals in the region succumb to bleaching and other stresses, this colony stands as a testament to resilience. Researchers have aptly named it a “beacon of hope” for marine conservation.
The Solomon Islands are home to over 490 varieties of hard and soft coral, ranking second globally in coral biodiversity. However, this rich marine environment is under pressure from logging, which pollutes the waters, despite being a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, accounting for up to 70% of annual export revenue.
The discovery of this centuries-old coral highlights the urgent need for protective measures to ensure the survival of such ecosystems. According to the Solomon Islands’ climate minister, Trevor Manemahaga, the coral represents a unique natural treasure: “We want the world to know that this is a special place and it needs to be protected.”
Corals globally face a grim future, with a recent report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) warning that 44% of warm-water coral species are now at risk of extinction—a significant rise from one-third in 2008. The primary driver of this alarming trend is global warming, which triggers widespread coral bleaching. Additional threats include pollution, overfishing, and disease.