“However, I think what we found is probably not an exception. It is more likely a reflection of how little we still know about coastal regions in West Africa and elsewhere. If we were able to find this reef again after 60 years, how many others are still undocumented or simply forgotten? So yes, I do believe there are likely more coral systems out there that we have not documented yet. But we should not assume they are everywhere. Each discovery needs to be confirmed. Without going back into the field, we are really just guessing.”

Gérard Zinzindohoué · said date not stated · reported 2026-07-20

Zinzindohoué suggested there are likely more undocumented coral systems off West Africa but cautioned each discovery needs confirmation.