300-year-old black coral discovered in Fiordland measures over 13 feet

Researchers from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington found a black coral in Fiordland more than 13 feet tall and estimated at 300–400 years old; they are working with conservation partners to map protected corals.

Researchers exploring the deep waters of Fiordland have recorded the largest black coral yet seen in Aotearoa New Zealand. The colony measures more than 13 feet tall and nearly 15 feet wide and is estimated to be 300–400 years old. The dive was led by scientists from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington and included staff from conservation agencies. The discovery is notable because large, slow-growing black corals serve as habitat and are biologically important for the populations that rely on them. Notable details: - The specimen was recorded on a dive led by researchers from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. - The colony measures over 13 feet (greater than four metres) tall and nearly 15 feet wide. - Age is estimated at roughly 300–400 years. - The species is protected under the Wildlife Act, making intentional collection or damage illegal. - Victoria University researchers are collaborating with the New Zealand Department of Conservation and the Fiordland Marine Guardians to map where protected corals occur. - The coral’s living tissue can appear white while its skeleton is black; black corals grow very slowly, provide habitat for deep-sea animals, and have cultural uses. Summary: Finding a very large, old black coral highlights biologically important sites in Fiordland and underscores the vulnerability of slow-growing coral colonies and the species they support. Researchers and conservation partners plan to map the locations of large colonies and use that information to inform protective measures, including advising on areas where fragility is a concern. Researchers have also asked people to report sightings of particularly large black corals (greater than four metres) so they can better understand how common such colonies are.