Great Barrier Reef Essay

The Great Barrier Reef is a site of remarkable beauty and sea life. This reef holds the world’s largest collection of coral reefs with over 400 different types of coral, about 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of mollusk. The reef holds great scientific interest as the habitat of species such as the dugong or the sea cow and the large green turtle. This reef complex is one of the biological wonders of the world. Unfortunately, these biologically rich and sensitive communities take so long to recover from damage that it is estimated that, within 50 years, there will be no viable coral reefs anywhere, if we continue to destroy them.

The Great Barrier Reefs is composed of natural beauty above and below the water, providing some of the most spectacular scenery on earth and is one of a few living structures visible from space. It is the world's largest stretch of coral reef and is more than likely the richest area in terms of biological diversity. The Great Barrier Reefs diversity reveals the maturity of an ecosystem which has evolved over millions of years. Not only does this ecosystem contain coral and different types of fish, it also contains more than 175 species of bird. There are also a great number of sponges, anemones, marine worms and crustaceans. The reef system is comprised of some 2900 individual reefs of all sizes and shapes. There are approximately 600 continental islands including many with towering forests and freshwater streams.

The reef includes major feeding grounds for the endangered sea cow and is also the nesting grounds for two endangered species of marine turtle, the green turtle and the loggerhead. It is the habitat for four other species of marine turtle and the reef is an important breeding area for hump...

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... to be a scientist to help have a positive impact on the Great Barrier Reef or any reef in general. One way to help is by conserving water, the less water you use, the less runoff and wastewater will pollute our oceans. You can help reduce pollution by walking, biking or riding the bus. Disposing of your trash properly by not leaving unwanted fishing lines or nets in the water or on the beach can help reduce the harmful effects on the reef. When you are visiting the reef you can practice safe and responsible diving and snorkeling. Contact with the coral can damage the delicate coral animals, and anchoring on the reef can kill it. Therefore, look for a sandy bottom or use moorings if available. Probably the most important thing you can do is spread the word, remember your learning on how important the planet's coral reefs are to us and the intricate global ecosystem.