In the remote Tatakoto Atoll in French Polynesia, researchers have discovered 'super corals' capable of withstanding intense heatwaves and extreme temperature fluctuations. This discovery, supported by UNESCO, Labex Corail, and the University of French Polynesia (UPF), offers a beacon of hope for the future of coral reef conservation.
The Tatakoto Atoll, located over 1,000 kilometers from Tahiti, presents environmental conditions seemingly unsuitable for coral survival. The lagoon experiences extreme temperature variations, reaching almost 35°C. Expeditions since 2021, led by Laetitia Hédouin, a researcher at the CNRS, have revealed that dozens of coral species are thriving in this unstable environment.
Researchers are studying whether this exceptional heat resistance is due to temporary factors or lasting genetic adaptation. Coral cuttings have been transplanted to Moorea to observe their behavior outside their original habitat. If successful, these corals could be used to restore damaged reefs worldwide, offering a crucial strategy for reef resilience in the face of climate change.