World’s largest coral found in Solomon Islands

Tiny organisms called coral polyps come together in complex networks to form colonies that then make up even larger coral reefs.

This one is mostly brown with bright splashes of yellow, blue and red, and its rippled surface resembles ocean waves, according to the team.

Moreover, the mega coral is “in excellent condition,” providing essential habitat, shelter and breeding grounds for an array of species from shrimp and crabs to fish, Timmers said.

However, this coral faces both local and global challenges.

“Overfishing removes organisms that have essential functions in sustaining the health of the ecosystem,” Timmers said, noting that every organism on a coral reef plays a vital role, such as sea cucumbers that clean the sediment and giant clams that filter bacteria from the water column.

Global warming is another challenge that could drive this coral to bleach and eventually die, she said, as the oceans warm because of climate change.

David M. Baker, an associate professor at the University of Hong Kong who studies coral reefs, said the discovery was “remarkable.”

Corals are “effectively immortal,” said Baker, who was not involved in the expedition. “The fact that this coral has persisted through significant environmental change is a testament to its adaptability — in addition to the excellent conditions it must enjoy.”

However, even the most remote coral reefs are not immune to climate change, he said.

“The existence of large and old corals is a sign of hope — that it’s not too late to protect, conserve and restore the oceans while fighting against climate change,” he said.

The Solomon Islands have the world’s second-highest coral diversity, with more than 490 species of hard and soft corals.

The world is currently experiencing a fourth global coral bleaching event, with mass bleaching confirmed in at least 62 countries and territories worldwide from 2023 to early 2024, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.