A recent expedition by biologist Manu San Félix, associated with National Geographic, has unveiled what may be the largest coral colony in the world, located in the Solomon Islands. The discovery, made during a routine dive, highlights the urgent need for marine conservation in the face of escalating threats from industrial fishing and climate change.
San Félix, who has dedicated 44 years to underwater exploration, described the coral as a monumental find. Measuring over 30 meters wide and long, the coral colony could be up to 300 years old. This isolated coral, unlike any he had encountered before, is vital for understanding marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Despite the excitement surrounding the discovery, San Félix expressed deep concern over the environmental degradation caused by the Chinese fishing fleet, which operates over 4,000 vessels in the Pacific. The impact of industrial fishing has led to a significant decline in marine life, including sharks, in the Solomon waters.
During the expedition, discussions with Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele emphasized the importance of establishing a marine protected area around the newly discovered coral. With only six years left to meet the United Nations' goal of protecting 30% of the world's oceans by 2030, immediate action is imperative.
San Félix's findings underscore the dual challenges of preserving marine ecosystems while combating the threats posed by climate change and human activity. As he prepares for future expeditions in Oceania, the hope remains that the significance of this coral discovery will galvanize conservation efforts in the region.