In a remarkable find, scientists have identified the largest coral ever recorded in the southwest Pacific Ocean. This colossal coral, a singular organism made up of numerous interconnected polyps, is estimated to be over 300 years old and surpasses the size of a blue whale. The discovery sheds light on the resilience of marine life in the face of climate change and highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts.
The extraordinary coral was spotted by Manu San Felix, a videographer aboard a National Geographic expedition exploring remote Pacific regions. Initially diving to investigate a shipwreck, San Felix was astonished to encounter what he likened to an “underwater cathedral.” Together with his son Inigo, they descended further to behold this magnificent structure.
The emotional experience evoked by witnessing such an ancient organism was profound for San Felix, who reflected on its survival through centuries of history.
Scientists on board meticulously measured the coral, revealing dimensions of 34 meters wide, 32 meters long, and 5.5 meters high. This specimen resides in deeper waters than most coral reefs, which may have shielded it from rising surface temperatures linked to climate change.
Coral reefs are often regarded as the architects of the seas, providing habitats for countless marine species and supporting the livelihoods of approximately one billion people globally through tourism and fishing. Despite their importance, corals face unprecedented threats due to warming oceans.
The announcement of this discovery coincided with the UN climate talks COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, where discussions centered around combating climate change. Trevor Manemahaga, climate minister for the Solomon Islands, expressed pride in the newfound coral and emphasized its critical role in their economy.
Manemahaga underscored that protecting this special marine environment is vital for economic survival as many island nations grapple with escalating climate impacts like severe cyclones and coastal erosion.
While logging currently contributes significantly to the Solomon Islands' economy—accounting for 50-70% of annual export revenue—it poses risks to coral health through pollution. Increased financial support from wealthier nations could enable local economies to diversify away from destructive practices.
Eric Brown, a coral scientist involved in the research expedition, noted that despite nearby shallow reefs suffering from degradation, this large healthy coral oasis serves as a “beacon of hope.”
In light of recent reports indicating that 44% of warm-water corals are threatened with extinction—a significant increase since 2008—the need for concerted global action has never been more urgent.
The discovery not only underscores the significance of preserving these ecosystems but also provides an opportunity for scientists to study this ancient coral as a window into historical oceanic conditions. As humanity grapples with environmental challenges, protecting such marvels becomes critical for both biodiversity and our collective future.
Protests Erupt in Valencia Over Flood Management Tens of thousands of residents in Valencia have taken to the streets, expressing their outrage over the government’s handling of devastating floods that claimed more than 200 lives.
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