A group of scientists discovered a gigantic coral in the Solomon Islands, now considered the largest in the world. Measuring 34 meters long and 32 meters wide, the coral is so vast that it can be seen from space. The expedition that led to this discovery was led by the team on the National Geographic research vessel Pristine Seas.
Initially mistaken for a rock or wreckage, the coral turned out to be a specimen of the Pavona clavus species upon closer inspection. Manu San Félix, underwater filmmaker, described it as a “natural monument” that has resisted the passing of centuries, including climate change and human action.
The newly discovered coral is three times larger than the famous “Big Momma”, located in American Samoa. Molly Timmers, one of the scientists on the expedition, compared it to melted ice spreading across the sea floor, highlighting its unusual shape in contrast to other massive corals.
This coral serves as a habitat for several marine species, functioning as an important ecosystem that supports marine life and protects the coasts. The discovery reinforces the importance of preserving reefs, which today face serious threats due to global warming and overfishing.
Scientists have stressed the urgency of protecting vulnerable marine areas, especially as part of the global initiative to preserve 30% of the oceans by 2030. Currently, only around 9% of marine areas are protected. The goal is to expand these zones, creating sanctuaries that can mitigate the effects of the climate crisis.
The team also highlighted that this coral is around 300 years old, being made up of millions of polyps that share the same genetic code, which differentiates it from reefs, formed by multiple independent colonies.
