Great barrier reef where is it located

Corals gain their rock-like structure from the polyps as they use calcium and carbonate ions from the seawater to create a hard outer skeleton to protect their soft bodies.

These polyps survive due to their relationship with the algae that live alongside them. The algae absorb light from the sun and subsequently feed the coral.

The algae also give the corals their bright colours. Corals are, in fact, nocturnal and it is under the cover of darkness that the polyps emerge from their outer casings to catch small creatures that pass by. The reef is further out than you may think. Whilst coral reefs thrive in warm, shallow waters, these are not always close to shore. A barrier reef is defined as a coral reef running parallel to the shore but separated by a large lagoon. The threats to the reef are numerous Sadly, the reef is struggling to survive with climate change being the main threat.

Rising sea temperatures and pollution leave the coral more susceptible to bleaching and, tragically, eventual death. Tourism can also play a role, with swimmers and divers touching and damaging parts of the reef as well as leaving behind rubbish and contaminating the waters with sun cream and other pollutants.

It is the algae which give the corals their colour so, of course, no algae means a bleached, colourless reef. Not all corals will immediately die following this event, however they are left without their primary food supply and are therefore more at risk of starvation and disease. Corals can recover after bleaching providing that conditions return to normal and they are not put under strain too soon afterward.

It is one of a few living structures visible from space, appearing as a complex string of reefal structures along Australia's northeast coast.

From the air, the vast mosaic patterns of reefs, islands and coral cays produce an unparalleled aerial panorama of seascapes comprising diverse shapes and sizes. The Whitsunday Islands provide a magnificent vista of green vegetated islands and spectacular sandy beaches spread over azure waters. This contrasts with the vast mangrove forests in Hinchinbrook Channel, and the rugged vegetated mountains and lush rainforest gullies that are periodically cloud-covered on Hinchinbrook Island.

On some continental islands, large aggregations of over-wintering butterflies periodically occur. Beneath the ocean surface, there is an abundance and diversity of shapes, sizes and colours; for example, spectacular coral assemblages of hard and soft corals, and thousands of species of reef fish provide a myriad of brilliant colours, shapes and sizes.

The internationally renowned Cod Hole near Lizard Island is one of many significant tourist attractions. Other superlative natural phenomena include the annual coral spawning, migrating whales, nesting turtles, and significant spawning aggregations of many fish species.

Criterion viii : The GBR, extending 2, kilometres along Queensland's coast, is a globally outstanding example of an ecosystem that has evolved over millennia. The area has been exposed and flooded by at least four glacial and interglacial cycles, and over the past 15, years reefs have grown on the continental shelf. During glacial periods, sea levels dropped, exposing the reefs as flat-topped hills of eroded limestone. Large rivers meandered between these hills and the coastline extended further east.

During interglacial periods, rising sea levels caused the formation of continental islands, coral cays and new phases of coral growth. This environmental history can be seen in cores of old massive corals. The processes of geological and geomorphological evolution are well represented, linking continental islands, coral cays and reefs.

The varied seascapes and landscapes that occur today have been moulded by changing climates and sea levels, and the erosive power of wind and water, over long time periods. One-third of the GBR lies beyond the seaward edge of the shallower reefs; this area comprises continental slope and deep oceanic waters and abyssal plains. Criterion ix : The globally significant diversity of reef and island morphologies reflects ongoing geomorphic, oceanographic and environmental processes.

The complex cross-shelf, longshore and vertical connectivity is influenced by dynamic oceanic currents and ongoing ecological processes such as upwellings, larval dispersal and migration. Ongoing erosion and accretion of coral reefs, sand banks and coral cays combine with similar processes along the coast and around continental islands. Extensive beds of Halimeda algae represent active calcification and accretion over thousands of years.

Biologically the unique diversity of the GBR reflects the maturity of an ecosystem that has evolved over millennia; evidence exists for the evolution of hard corals and other fauna.

Globally significant marine faunal groups include over 4, species of molluscs, over 1, species of fish, plus a great diversity of sponges, anemones, marine worms, crustaceans, and many others. The establishment of vegetation on the cays and continental islands exemplifies the important role of birds, such as the Pied Imperial Pigeon, in processes such as seed dispersal and plant colonisation.

Human interaction with the natural environment is illustrated by strong ongoing links between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and their sea-country, and includes numerous shell deposits middens and fish traps, plus the application of story places and marine totems.

Criterion x : The enormous size and diversity of the GBR means it is one of the richest and most complex natural ecosystems on earth, and one of the most significant for biodiversity conservation. The amazing diversity supports tens of thousands of marine and terrestrial species, many of which are of global conservation significance. As the world's most complex expanse of coral reefs, the reefs contain some species of corals in 60 genera.

There are also large ecologically important inter-reefal areas. The shallower marine areas support half the world's diversity of mangroves and many seagrass species. The waters also provide major feeding grounds for one of the world's largest populations of the threatened dugong. At least 30 species of whales and dolphins occur here, and it is a significant area for humpback whale calving.

Some species of birds have been recorded in the GBR. Twenty-two seabird species breed on cays and some continental islands, and some of these breeding sites are globally significant; other seabird species also utilize the area. The continental islands support thousands of plant species, while the coral cays also have their own distinct flora and fauna. The ecological integrity of the GBR is enhanced by the unparalleled size and current good state of conservation across the property.

Occupying such a large tract of space, it is little wonder that the Great Barrier Reef contains more than just coral reefs.

Other natural features include: mangrove estuaries; sandy and coral cays; continental islands; sea grass beds; algal and sponge gardens; sandy and muddy bottom communities; continental slopes and deep ocean troughs. Cairns in Tropical North Queensland is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the best place to base yourself for a visit. Cairns is the closest coastal city to the Great Barrier Reef, meaning less travel and more time on the reef. It offers over day tour options, including snorkel and dive tours to the Great Barrier Reef, its islands and coral cays.

Cairns is also home to the Daintree Rainforests and within driving distance of Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. Cairns is a safe, tropical holiday destination with world class attractions and Australian tourism award winning attractions and well know for Cairns Diving. A 'must do' inclusion on any Australian Great Barrier Reef holiday itinerary. We have personally been on every Cairns reef and diving trip.

Not available for any tours to the Islands as fine white sand damages the seals on the cameras and makes them leak! You need to come into our shop located on the Cairns Esplanade the day before departure to pick up the camera before pm. You also need to supply your own SD Camera Card and drop the camera off back at our shop before pm.

More Info. Where is the Great Barrier Reef Located? Sunlover Cruises Great day tour for people of all ages. Reef Magic Cruises Up to 5 hours at the reef. Contact Us. Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Values The Great Barrier Reef provides a habitat for rare and threatened species of plants and animals and for in situ conversation of biodiversity.

The Great Barrier Reef has outstanding examples representing significant ongoing ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals. The Great Barrier Reef contains superlative natural phenomena and areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance.