Cinematographer Manu San Félix made an extraordinary discovery while diving in the Solomon Islands: the world’s largest coral colony. The National Geographic Society’s Pristine Seas team, during their October 2024 expedition, stumbled upon this colossal coral, which spans an impressive 112 by 105 feet. Remarkably, it is longer than a blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, and can even be seen from space, despite being concealed beneath the ocean’s surface for so long.
The find was almost missed, with lead scientist Molly Timmers describing it as a “serendipitous” moment, occurring just before the team was set to explore a different area. This colony, made up of nearly a billion genetically identical coral polyps, represents the largest ever recorded. Although it is in excellent health, researchers express concern about global warming, overfishing, and other threats facing coral ecosystems. They hope that this significant discovery will rally support for enhanced protections of marine environments in the Solomon Islands.
Enric Sala, founder of Pristine Seas, likens the discovery to finding the tallest tree on Earth, reigniting a sense of wonder about our oceans. The colony consists of a hard coral known as Pavona clavus, which displays a vibrant array of colors, including browns, yellows, reds, pinks, and blues.
Interestingly, this majestic coral has existed for around 300 years, witnessing historical events ranging from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with evidence of coral die-offs in nearby reefs, researchers remain cautious about the colony’s resilience against changing environmental conditions.
Despite the challenges facing corals worldwide, finding such a large, healthy colony provides a beacon of hope. With a notable 77% of coral reef areas experiencing bleaching due to rising temperatures, the survival of this immense coral is encouraging for the future of marine ecosystems. The researchers suggest that its location in deeper, cooler waters may contribute to its optimal health.
The local community is optimistic that this landmark discovery will strengthen their long-standing efforts to secure official protections for their waters. While these waters are currently owned by the local community and have seen unofficial protections for 14 years, they seek national support for preservation.
Overall, this incredible find emphasizes the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard our oceans. As humanity grapples with the impacts of climate change, the existence of such a remarkable coral colony serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience and the importance of environmental stewardship.
This discovery not only elevates awareness about marine conservation but also highlights a profound connection to nature and its capacity to inspire hope amidst global challenges.
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