Researchers have discovered the world's largest coral colony in the southwest Pacific Ocean, in the waters of the Solomon Islands. Measuring an astonishing 34 meters wide and 32 meters long, the coral is a species called *Pavona clavus* and is believed to be over 300 years old.

The world's biggest coral — an organism made up of about a billion polyps — is about three times bigger than the previous record-holder and was discovered by chance during an expedition off the Solomon Islands.

Scientists say they have found the world's largest coral near the Pacific's Solomon Islands, announcing Thursday a major discovery "pulsing with life and color".