A mother and daughter diving off Australia’s Queensland coast have discovered the world’s largest known coral colony. The massive formation was identified while the pair were mapping the Great Barrier Reef.
Spanning more than 40,000 square feet, the colony covers an area roughly equal to 15 tennis courts. Marine researchers describe the site as a thriving ecosystem filled with fish, sharks, turtles, and other reef life.
Scientists are examining whether strong tidal currents have helped keep the coral in such good condition.