Colossal Coral Discovered in Pacific Ocean

A giant and ancient coral reef has been recently discovered by scientists from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the Pacific Ocean. This majestic coral, similar to a huge cathedral, is formed by colonies of Porites rus, a stony coral species. It rises from the crater of an underwater volcano located in the Maug Islands in the Mariana archipelago in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.

“This coral was so large that we couldn’t easily measure it due to diving safety restrictions,” explains Thomas Oliver, the chief researcher of NOAA’s National Coral Reef Monitoring Program.

This giant coral reef covers an area of 1,350 square meters, with a width of over 30 meters at the top and up to 60 meters at the base. These impressive measurements come at a time when many corals are suffering from the effects of climate change, including bleaching, diseases, and habitat destruction.

Unlike other coral species, Porites rus does not show visible growth rings, making it challenging to estimate its age. After careful study, experts estimated that it grows one centimeter each year, which means it could be over 2,050 years old.

This remarkable coral is not only large but also has an age that intrigues scientists. It is part of the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument created in 2009 to protect unique marine ecosystems.

The Maug caldera, where this coral is located, is known as a “natural laboratory” for researchers due to its unique carbon dioxide vents. These vents create acidic oceanic conditions, allowing scientists to study how organisms like corals can adapt to these changing conditions.

Coral reefs are essential for protecting coastlines, supporting fishing industries, and contributing to climate balance. The previous record for the largest coral colonies was held by Porites corals observed in American Samoa, but the Pacific discovery surpasses this record by 3.4 times.

References:
– Mereini Gamblin, Polynésie1ère, (21/03/2026), “A giant coral breaks all records in the Pacific… and fascinates scientists”
– National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), (17/03/2026), “Colossal coral in the Mariana Islands is largest of its kind”