Topic 35: The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia.  It is composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, stretching for over 2,300 kilometers. This massive ecosystem is so large it can be seen from outer space.

Importance of the Reef

The reef is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a vast array of marine life, including 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish, and 4,000 types of mollusks. It also provides essential habitat for endangered species like the green sea turtle, dugong, and the large dugong. Beyond its ecological value, the Great Barrier Reef supports a significant tourism industry, contributing billions of dollars to the Australian economy each year.

Threats to the Reef

Despite its size and importance, the Great Barrier Reef is under severe threat. The primary dangers include:

Climate Change: Rising sea temperatures cause coral bleaching, a process where corals expel the algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white and often die.

Pollution: Runoff from agricultural areas carries nutrients and pesticides that harm water quality and promote the growth of crown-of-thorns starfish, which prey on coral.

Coastal Development: Expansion of ports and other coastal infrastructure can damage habitats and increase shipping traffic, leading to accidental damage.

Efforts are being made to protect the reef through conservation programs and research aimed at increasing its resilience.