The world’s largest coral – so big it can be seen from space – discovered by chance off the Solomon Islands

On November 16, 2024By Littum

In the depths of the Southwest Pacific, researchers have discovered the largest coral ever documented. Spanning an impressive 111 feet (34 meters) in width, 105 feet (32 m) in length and standing 18 feet (5.5 m) tall, this colossal organism is so large that it is even visible even from space – located near the Three Sisters Island group in the Solomon Islands.

The coral, identified as Pavona clavusis a single, self-contained structure, unlike the extensive networks that typically form coral reefs. Scientists estimate it to be about 300 years old, making it not just a biological wonder spanning the size of two basketball courts, but also a record of centuries of oceanic conditions.

“It is a natural monument that has seen the arrival of the first Europeans in these waters,” San Félix, an underwater cinematographer for National Geographic Pristine Seas, who was the first to see the giant coral, said in a statement.

Despite its size, the coral went under the radar until now, with even the local community reportedly unaware of its existence.

Related: World’s largest deep-sea coral reef found lurking beneath the Gulf Stream ‘on the doorstep’ of the US coast

The coral was discovered by a group of scientists from pristine seas program, which conducts exploration and research projects to help protect the world’s oceans. The team was studying the marine health of the area aboard the Argo research vessel when they spotted the giant structure.

They initially thought it might have been a shipwreck, but closer inspection revealed the vibrant marine ecosystem sheltered among the yellows, blues and reds of the coral. Shrimp, crabs and reef fish depend on the coral complex for both shelter and breeding groups.

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The coral is about three times larger than the previous record holder, according to the statement. It consists of a network of polyps, which are tiny soft creatures related to anemones and jellyfish that act as the building blocks of corals. The polyps that form the giant coral came from larvae that settled on the sea floor and then multiplied over centuries.

An aerial view of the world’s largest coral colony in the Solomon Islands. (Image credit: Photo by Steve Spence, National Geographic Pristine Seas)

“Just when we think there is nothing left to discover on planet Earth, we find a massive coral made of nearly a billion tiny polyps, pulsating with life and color.” Enrique SalaNational Geographic Explorer in Residence and founder of Pristine Seas, the statement said. “This is a significant scientific discovery, like finding the world’s tallest tree. But there is cause for alarm.”

Solomon Islands, known for hosting the second highest coral diversity in the world, is at the forefront of marine conservation. The area’s reefs are vital ecosystems that support marine biodiversity and act as buffers against coastal storms.

Climate-driven changes threaten the stability and health of many marine habitats, including coral reefs. Seam average temperatures and greenhouse gas emissions increase, more carbon dioxide dissolves in the ocean, causing them to remain more acidic.

Ocean acidification has led to significant coral death, reducing their ability to grow their calcium skeletons and bleach them to a ghostly white color.

The size and health of the Soloman coral offers hope, but its researchers highlight the need for further action. “For the people of the Solomon Islands, this megacoral discovery is monumental. It reinforces the importance of our seas, which sustain our communities, traditions and future,” Ronnie Posala, Fisheries Officer, Solomon Islands Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, said in the statement. “Such discoveries remind us of our duty to protect these natural wonders, not just for their ecological value, but for their livelihoods and cultural identity.”

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