Why is the Great Barrier Reef so special?
The Great Barrier Reef is unique as it extends over 14 degrees of latitude, from shallow estuarine areas to deep oceanic waters. Within this vast expanse are a unique range of ecological communities, habitats and species – all of which make the Reef one of the most complex natural ecosystems in the world.
What is the Great Barrier Reef used for?
The Reef supports significant commercial industries, especially commercial marine tourism and fisheries, and supports employment equal to over 54,000 full-time positions. Shipping activity throughout the Great Barrier Reef is also a vital link in the production chain for many industries and services regional centres.
What are some fun facts about the Great Barrier Reef?
10 incredible facts about the Great Barrier Reef
- It’s the only place on earth where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet.
- It’s bigger than Tasmania and Victoria, combined.
- You’ll find a third of the world’s coral here.
- And it’s home to nearly 5,000 marine and mammal species.
- You can volunteer on the Great Barrier Reef.
How old is the Great Barrier Reef?
8,000 years
What is the most dangerous thing in the Great Barrier Reef?
Blue-Ringed Octopus This small, colorful octopus can be found in tide pools and coral reefs in the Pacific and Indian oceans. It is also one of the most deadly marine animals in the world.
What is killing the Great Barrier Reef?
Australia’s Great Barrier Reef has lost more than half of its corals since 1995 due to warmer seas driven by climate change, a study has found. Scientists found all types of corals had suffered a decline across the world’s largest reef system. The steepest falls came after mass bleaching events in 2016 and 2017.
How long will it take for the Great Barrier Reef to die?
The Great Barrier Reef is at a critical tipping point and could disappear by 2050.
How much does it cost to visit the Great Barrier Reef?
Price
| Price | |
|---|---|
| 1 Day Great Barrier Tour | $115 |
| Great Barrier Reef Premium Snorkelling Tour | $189 |
| 1 Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise Deluxe | $205 |
| Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Adventure | $219 |
What is the average length of stay at the Great Barrier Reef?
You’ll get a taste of life under the water of the Great Barrier Reef with 3 – 5 hours of snorkelling time depending on which tour you select. Dive options are also available, even if you have no previous diving experience.
Which island is closest to Great Barrier Reef?
The Whitsunday Islands are probably the most well-known group of islands on the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and are a collection of smaller islands scattered off the central coast of North Queensland. These include the exclusive island paradises of Hamilton Island, Hayman Island and stunning Whitehaven Beach.
Does the Great Barrier Reef provide oxygen?
Coral reefs are generally made up of polyp colonies. These coral reef colonies grow into huge structures and together form the Great Barrier Reef. These tiny organisms supercharge the growth of the hard coral as they provide oxygen and sugars for the coral and provide up to 98% of the corals‘ food.
How far is Cairns to Great Barrier Reef?
140km
How far away is the Great Barrier Reef from shore?
The reef, between 15 kilometres and 150 kilometres off shore and around 65 Km wide in some parts, is a gathering of brilliant, vivid coral providing divers with the most spectacular underwater experience imaginable.
How far out is the Great Barrier Reef?
The Great Barrier Reef extends in roughly a northwest-southeast direction for more than 1,250 miles (2,000 km), at an offshore distance ranging from 10 to 100 miles (16 to 160 km), and has an area of some 135,000 square miles (350,000 square km).
How far is Port Douglas to Great Barrier Reef?
62 km
Is Port Douglas or Cairns better?
Overall, if it’s adventure, a buzzing nightlife, great food and shopping that you’re after then Cairns is the place for you. It offers more things to do even for those on a tighter budget. Port Douglas is more suited for those wanting a relaxed laid back holiday surrounded by nature in a small village atmosphere.
What is the best time of year to visit the Great Barrier Reef?
The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is from June to October. This peak season offers some key advantages for travelers. Temperatures hover in the low 60s to mid-80s, and rainfall is uncommon, which means clearer waters and better diving conditions.
How many jobs rely on the Great Barrier Reef?
64,000 jobs
Who owns the Great Barrier Reef?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the Traditional Owners of the Great Barrier Reef area and have a continuing connection to their land and sea country.
Who is interested in maintaining the Great Barrier Reef?
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is Australia’s key management agency for the Great Barrier Reef, and works with government, industry and community to protect this spectacular area.
What cultural value does the Great Barrier Reef?
The cultural significance of the Great Barrier Reef to these communities has largely been documented through paintings, songs and stories that have been passed down through generations. The Aborigines and Torres Straight people used these waters to gather fish and other natural resources required for their sustenance.
What are the largest coral reefs in the world?
The World’s 7 Largest Coral Reefs
- Great Barrier Reef, Australia. The GBR is the largest reef in terms of length and area.
- Red Sea Coral Reef, Israel, Egypt and Djibouti.
- New Caledonia Barrier Reef, South Pacific.
- MesoAmerican Barrier Reef, Atlantic Ocean.
- Florida Reef, Florida.
- Andros Coral Reef, Bahamas.
- Saya Del Malha, Indian Ocean.