The tiny building blocks of the Great Barrier Reef score a close-up in this historic scientific footage from 1964.

Directed by Noel Monkman, a filmmaker known for pioneering underwater photography, this documentary clip explores coral polyps, creatures invisible to the naked human eye. Using innovative techniques, Monkman captures these critical marine animals under a microscopic lens. The rarity of seeing their shape and movement is heightened by the educational narration, which gives viewers a sense of just how little these organisms are.

With the passing of time, this footage has taken on a different, more profound significance. Reef health has since declined rapidly due to climate change and human interference. This close-up footage gives modern audiences a glimpse into a healthy coral system and spotlights the organisms that make up its living foundation.