Coral reefs hide "scientific treasures" that have survived for centuries, yet many of these giant, ancient organisms remain largely unknown to science. A new study published in the journal Nature Conservation introduces "Map the Giants," a pioneering citizen-science initiative launched by researchers from the University of Milano-Bicocca to find these giant coral colonies before they are lost to escalating global pressures.
Map the Giants® was born from a sobering yet stimulating realization by the research team: despite their centennial age and their remarkable sizes - defined by the project as colonies measuring at least 5 meters in length - these colonies lack formal recognition. This leaves them vulnerable to disappearance simply because we do not know they exist.
A Mission of Discovery
While these coral giants have withstood the elements for hundreds of years, the last century has brought unprecedented local and global threats.
We are in a race to recognize these organisms. They have survived for centuries, but modern pressures are increasing so rapidly that some colonies may disappear before they are even documented.
- the authors emphasized the urgency.
The research highlights that identifying these giants is not just a scientific necessity, but a vital tool for fostering ocean literacy and raising awareness among local stakeholders and the broader community - a goal made possible through a standardized reporting protocol and multi-expert validation that ensures robust data collection regardless of the contributor's background.
Secrets of Survival
The team searched for more than just size; they also looked for vital clues to "coral resilience". Long-lived giant corals act as high-resolution time capsules, archiving centuries of past climate and environmental conditions within their skeletons.
By locating and studying these ancient survivors, we hope to unlock the genetic secrets and traits that have enabled these specific individuals to resist and acclimatize to environmental changes.
the researchers explained
Furthermore, the project aims to provide a validated sampling frame to support peer-reviewed studies on resilient "super-corals," which could help future-proof and restore the reefs of tomorrow. Ultimately, by identifying these culturally and ecologically valuable colonies, the researchers plan to collaborate with stakeholders to explore protection measures and establish them as marine monuments.
The Power of the Community
The project has already seen remarkable success. In its first 18 months, the initiative received 195 submissions from 22 countries, resulting in 133 validated entries added to the public database. Most surprisingly, the project reports of an incredibly large Porites sp. coral measuring over 60 metres in linear length or a Pavona cf. clavus over 195 metres in perimeter, offering new inspirations for future scientific research.
Citizen science is pivotal. The sheer scale of coral reefs requires a concerted effort. Anyone with a camera and a snorkel can join us. A simple report of a giant's existence is the first step in recognizing and studying them.
- said project lead Prof. Simone Montano
How to Join the Search
The project is designed for total accessibility. Through a dedicated website (www.mapthegiants.com) and social media presence, the public can contribute data and learn about the beauty and fragility of reef ecosystems. The adaptable protocol ensures that whilst data are robust, the background of the contributor will only affect the level of complexity of the data, not the report on its own. By turning divers and reef users into "coral seekers," the project aims to bridge the gap between professional science and community-led conservation.
Original source:
Siena FM, Gabbiadini A, Fallati L, Galli P, Montano S (2026) Map the Giants: a new citizen-science portal to map, study and protect the largest coral colonies. Nature Conservation 63: 127-151. https://doi.org/10.3897/natureconservation.63.182923