Pristine coral reef discovered in deep water off the coast of Tahiti
New ScientistMAR 14 2022
World's Largest Coral Found Near Solomon Islands
Above: This underwater photo taken on April 5, 2024, shows bleached and dead coral around Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef, located 270 kilometers (167 miles) north of the city of Cairns, Australia. Image copyright: DAVID GRAY/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The discovery of the massive Solomon Islands "mega coral," thriving despite warming oceans, reveals the resilience of some species and the endurance of ocean ecosystems. This unique coral demonstrates the potential for survival, inspiring both conservation efforts and optimism for coral recovery in a changing world.
Narrative B
Healthy marine ecosystems rely on diverse coral species, not single giants, to thrive under increasing pressures from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Without bold climate action and protection of diverse reef ecosystems, coral reefs — and the myriad species that depend on them — could be lost within decades. The world must act now, not become complacent.