Great Barrier Reef
Overview
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching over 2,300 kilometres. Located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Geography and Structure
The Great Barrier Reef extends from the northern tip of Queensland in north-eastern Australia to just north of Bundaberg. It is a complex, interconnected system of reefs, islands, and marine habitats. The reef system is positioned in the Coral Sea and covers an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres. The reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps.
Biodiversity
The Great Barrier Reef is renowned for its biodiversity. It is home to a vast array of species, including 30 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, more than 1,500 fish species, and 411 types of hard coral. The reef also supports a variety of birds, with 215 species, including 22 species of seabirds and 32 species of shorebirds. The Great Barrier Reef also hosts six of the world's seven species of marine turtle - a significant population in global terms.
Ecosystems
The Great Barrier Reef supports a diversity of ecosystems, each with its unique species and processes. These ecosystems include coral reefs, island systems, and estuarine seagrass beds. The reef's biodiversity, its clear warm waters and its accessibility make it a favoured destination for tourists, particularly for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Threats and Conservation
The Great Barrier Reef faces a range of threats, including climate change, pollution, overfishing, and outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns starfish. The Australian government has implemented a range of strategies and regulations to mitigate these threats and protect the reef. These include the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975, and the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan.
Tourism
Tourism is an essential part of the economy in the Great Barrier Reef region, contributing over AUD$6 billion annually and supporting more than 69,000 jobs. The majority of tourism activities are focused on the day-trip market, with snorkelling and diving being the most popular activities.