Thu Nov 14 09:12:11 UTC 2024: ## Giant Coral, Three Times Larger Than Previous Record Holder, Discovered in Solomon Islands
**Solomon Islands, [Date]** – Scientists have discovered the largest coral ever recorded, a sprawling organism located near the remote Solomon Islands in the Pacific Ocean. This “mega coral,” estimated to be around 300 years old, measures a staggering 32 meters long and 34 meters wide.
The coral, which appears as a giant rock from the surface, is actually a network of billions of tiny coral polyps, pulsing with vibrant hues of yellow, blue, and red. It dwarfs the previous record holder, known as “Big Momma” in American Samoa, by three times.
This remarkable discovery, made by the National Geographic Pristine Seas team, offers a beacon of hope amid growing concerns about coral bleaching and the impacts of climate change. The team believes the coral’s healthy state, despite its size, underscores the resilience of these vital ecosystems.
“Just when we think there is nothing left to discover on planet earth, we find a massive coral made of nearly one billion little polyps, pulsing with life and colour,” exclaimed Enric Sala, National Geographic explorer and Pristine Seas founder.
The discovery comes as delegates from 200 countries gather in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the UN Climate Summit (COP29). This year’s event coincides with record-breaking global temperatures, adding urgency to climate action negotiations.
Despite its remote location, the newfound coral remains vulnerable to the escalating threat of global warming. Scientists emphasize the importance of safeguarding this vital ecosystem, as it represents a valuable source of genetic information for coral survival.
“The genetic code of these simple polyps is an enormous encyclopaedia that has written how to survive multiple climatic conditions, and until now it does so in the face of ocean warming,” explained Manu San Felix, Pristine Seas underwater cinematographer.
The Solomon Islands, where the discovery was made, are among the nations most at risk from climate change and natural disasters. The Prime Minister, Jeremiah Manele, expressed his gratitude for the discovery and emphasized the critical role of healthy coral reefs for the nation’s economy and livelihoods.
“The ocean provides for our livelihoods and has contributed so much to our national economy and communities,” said Manele. “Our survival depends on healthy coral reefs, so this exciting discovery underlines the importance of protecting and sustaining them for future generations.”
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