Ancient coral behemoth discovered near Solomon Islands
Scientists have discovered a gigantic coral in the Pacific, near the Solomon Islands (in western Oceania), which is about 300 years old and is three times larger than the previous record-holder, reaching a size comparable to five tennis courts.
Scientists from the National Geographic Pristine Seas team discovered the largest coral in the world near the Solomon Islands. This giant measures about 32 metres in length and 34 metres in width; its age is estimated at around 300 years. The coral is three times larger than the previous record-holder (known as Big Momma) and is the size of five tennis courts. The National Geographic Society announced the discovery.
Gigantic coral found in the Pacific
The coral, with a circumference of about 183 metres, consists of a network of coral polyps. It is an independent structure that has grown continuously for hundreds of years. Unlike a reef, a network of many coral colonies, this gigantic coral is a single organism.
Researchers emphasise that the genetic code of these polyps is "a huge encyclopaedia." It describes how to survive in various climate conditions and has done so in the face of ocean warming. Sala notes that corals are not resistant to global warming, so their survival may be threatened.
This discovery is particularly significant in the context of climate changes that threaten coral life worldwide. "It's a significant scientific discovery, comparable to finding the tallest tree in the world," said Enric Sala, a researcher at National Geographic.
A refuge for many species
The Pavona clavus coral provides shelter and a breeding ground for many species, from shrimp to fish. Despite its colours and size, it looks like a huge rock from the ocean's surface.
The discovery occurred when delegations from 200 countries met at Baku's UN climate summit. The rising ocean temperatures seriously threaten corals, and scientists fear the world's reefs may not survive.
The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele, emphasised the importance of healthy coral reefs for his country's survival. "Our survival depends on healthy coral reefs, so this exciting discovery underlines the importance of protecting and sustaining them for future generations," Manele said.
