Archive · 16 Jan 2026
Scientists Discover Giant 300-Year-Old Black Coral in New Zealand
Scientists in New Zealand found a very big and old black coral in the deep ocean.
This coral is special because it is much bigger than most corals, being 13 feet tall and 15 feet wide.
It is also very old, around 300 to 400 years.
The scientists think this coral is important because it helps other sea creatures live and grow.
They want to protect it so that boats and fishing gear do not damage it.
The coral is protected by law, and scientists are working to find more of these big corals to keep them safe.
Even though it is called black coral, it looks white because of the living parts, and only its skeleton is black.
Scientists discovered the largest black coral ever found off the coast of Fiordland, New Zealand.
The coral is 13 feet high and 15 feet wide, estimated to be 300 to 400 years old.
The discovery is significant for understanding and protecting deep-sea ecosystems.
The coral is protected under the Wildlife Act, making it illegal to collect or damage it.
Scientists are mapping areas with protected corals and urging divers to report large coral colonies.
- Who
- Marine scientists from Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington and the New Zealand Department of Conservation
- What
- Discovered the largest black coral ever found
- When
- During a deep-water dive in Fiordland
- Where
- Off the coast of Fiordland, New Zealand
- Why
- To better understand and protect deep-sea life
- Location
- Fiordland, New Zealand
- Size
- 13 feet high and 15 feet wide
- Age
- 300 to 400 years old
- Discoverers
- Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington
- Protection Status
- Protected under the Wildlife Act
- Uses
- Medicine, jewelry, and shelter for deep sea creatures