Unveiling a Giant: Record Coral Discovery in the Pacific

In the South Pacific, a monumental discovery has been made by National Geographic's Pristine Seas program—a gigantic Pavona clavus coral over 300 years old and stretching 34 meters, surpassing the length of a blue whale. This colossal coral forms a crucial habitat for numerous marine species, highlighting both the wonder and fragility of the ocean ecosystem.

Enric Sala, founder of Pristine Seas, regards this find as significant yet concerning, emphasizing the vulnerability of such ecosystems to climate change. Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele stresses the reliance of his nation on healthy coral reefs for sustenance and ecological balance.

With the Solomon Islands hosting the world's second-largest coral diversity, there's an urgent call to increase ocean protection from the current 8.4% to 30% by 2030, ensuring the preservation of vital resources and biodiversity.