The Basics
Australia's Great Barrier Reef—the world's largest coral reef—is a unique marine ecosystem that is considered one of the seven greatest wonders of the natural world, and is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, 411 types of hard coral, one-third of the world’s soft corals, 134 species of sharks and rays, six of the world’s seven species of threatened marine turtles, and more than 30 species of marine mammals. However,
recent studies have suggested that this ecological paradise may be in serious
danger.
The Great Barrier Reef has lost over half of its population in the past three decades, and the reef's coral cover has dropped from 28.0% to 13.8%. Many factors have influenced the deterioration of the Great Barrier Reef, both caused by man and nature. The real issue, however, is what can be done to alleviate further damage and restore the reefs to their original thriving nature.
The Great Barrier Reef has lost over half of its population in the past three decades, and the reef's coral cover has dropped from 28.0% to 13.8%. Many factors have influenced the deterioration of the Great Barrier Reef, both caused by man and nature. The real issue, however, is what can be done to alleviate further damage and restore the reefs to their original thriving nature.
Why is it Important to Preserve the Great Barrier Reef?
Coral reefs are important for many different reasons aside from supporting the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. They:
This is why large numbers of marine species live in reefs. Other reasons why they are so important include:
- protect coastlines from the damaging effects of wave action and tropical storms
- provide habitats and shelter for many marine organisms
- are the source of nitrogen and other essential nutrients for marine food chains
- assist in carbon and nitrogen fixing
- help with nutrient recycling.
This is why large numbers of marine species live in reefs. Other reasons why they are so important include:
- The fishing industry depends on coral reefs because many fish spawn there and juvenile fish spend time there before making their way to the open sea
- The Great Barrier Reef generates more than1.5 billion dollars every year for the Australian economy, from fishing and tourism