Hidden beneath the waters off the Solomon Islands lies a majestic creature that has stood the test of time, its grandeur visible even from outer space.
Described as resembling a melting scoop of ice cream stretching endlessly across the ocean floor, this newly discovered coral named Pavona clavus is a sight to behold. Comprised of scapula-like ridges formed by nearly a billion stony coral polyps working together to create intricate calcium carbonate skeletons, it is truly a marvel of nature (SN: 10/30/24).
Marine ecologist Molly Timmers from the Pristine Seas team marveled at its beauty, likening it to an otherworldly creation. Coral scientist Eric Brown emphasized the importance of such living structures in providing vital habitat for countless marine species. Despite covering just 0.2 percent of the ocean’s expanse, coral reef ecosystems support over 25 percent of all marine life on Earth.
Date and Time: 2024-11-15 11:00:00
Original Source: www.sciencenews.org