Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington-led team finds largest black coral off Fiordland, New Zealand

Exam-focused facts from the 17 January 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

Marine scientists have discovered the largest black coral ever found in the sea off New Zealand.
The coral measures more than 13 feet high and about 15 feet wide and is estimated to be around 300 to 400 years old.
Large and old corals are important breeding sources for this slow-growing species.
Black corals are protected under the Wildlife Act, making it illegal to deliberately collect or damage them.
These corals are mostly found in deep waters and are used for medicine and jewelry in many cultures.