Environment and Ecology World’s Largest Known Living Coral Colony Discovered in Lakshadweep Context: Researchers have identified what may be the largest known living coral colony in the world near Kadmat Island. The coral colony, locally called “Potato Patch”, belongs to the species Pavona clavus. The discovery was made during a marine biodiversity survey in Lakshadweep. Age Estimated to be 700–1,800 years old based on preliminary growth-rate calculations. Age confirmation requires scientific methods such as: Sclerochronology, Radiometric dating Scientific Significance Appears to be the largest documented living colony of Pavona clavus globally. Larger than previously reported giant coral colonies in: Great Barrier Reef, Red Sea, Solomon Islands Represents a rare long-lived coral structure with valuable biological and climatic records. Ecological Importance About 58.47% of the coral tissue remains alive, indicating relatively good health. Supports diverse fish communities and marine biodiversity. Acts as a potential refuge for long-lived coral colonies in the Indian Ocean. Threats Faces risks from: Coral bleaching, Marine heatwaves, Tropical cyclones, El Niño events Previous El Niño events (1998, 2010, 2016) caused major coral mortality in Lakshadweep reefs.
