SYDNEY, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- A large coral colony was found on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, according to a statement from conservation group Citizens of the Reef on Thursday.

Photo shows some fast-growing coral species on the Great Barrier Reef slow down their growth rates when exposed to warm water. (Photo: Xinhua)

Preliminary measurements put the colony at about 111 meters long with an estimated footprint of roughly 3,973 square meters, far exceeding typical international reports for comparable single colonies in the 30-35 meter range, the statement said.

The exact location is being withheld to reduce the risk of unintended impacts, and the relevant management authorities have been informed to support long-term stewardship of the site, the statement said.

Scientists involved cautioned that the finding should not be interpreted as evidence that reefs are broadly recovering or that climate pressures are diminishing, but as a sign of uneven resilience and the need to identify, understand, and protect remaining strongholds across vast reef systems.