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Source: This post on Discovery of the World’s Largest Coral in the Solomon Islands has been created based on the article “Scientists discover the largest coral colony on Earth in the Solomon Islands: Key insights on its size and age” published in Times of India on 16th November 2024.
Why in news?
Recently, a massive coral structure has been discovered in the Solomon Islands, South Pacific. The discovery of this colossal coral underscores the ocean’s vast mysteries and the urgent need to protect such ecosystems from environmental challenges.
About Discovery of the World’s Largest Coral in the Solomon Islands
It’s the largest coral known to date. The coral is comparable in size to two basketball courts or five tennis courts.
It has been found as part of National Geographic’s Pristine Seas Project, led by explorer Enric Sala.
Physical Characteristics:
1. It is lying at a depth of 40 feet below the surface. Its height (16 feet) indicates an estimated age of over 300 years. It is visible from space due to its sheer size and striking colors.
2. It measures approximately 111 feet wide, 104 feet long, and 18 feet high.
3. It belongs to the Pavona clavus species. It is predominantly brown but includes vibrant hues of yellow, blue, and red.
4. It provides habitat, shelter, and breeding grounds for various marine species, including shrimp, crabs, and fish. It has been compared to finding the world’s tallest tree due to its ecological importance.
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
