Scientists discover world’s largest coral in Solomon Islands

STORY: :: Scientists have discovered the world’s largest coral

:: Solomon Islands

:: The mega coral is three times larger than the previous record-holder

:: and is believed to be around 300 years old

:: Eric Brown, National Geographic Pristine Seas Coral Expert

“Now the significance of finding coral like this, you know, goes beyond simply, you know, enjoying the moment and seeing this magnificent organism that’s mega coral, because it doesn’t just captivate the hearts and minds of people like seeing something magical, but it really shines a light (on) the significance of coral reefs worldwide, what their critical role is in the ecosystem.”

Scientists from the National Geographic Pristine Seas team were researching the health of the Solomon Islands’ ocean environments when they made the discovery. When underwater cinematographer Manu San Felix first saw the mega coral, he thought it was a shipwreck due to its large size.

The team’s coral expert, Eric Brown, said that the discovery is a reminder of the importance of coral reefs and the increased need for action to save the world’s oceans.