Read an Academic Passage

The Great Barrier Reef's Biodiversity

The Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, is the world's largest coral reef system. Composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometers, it is so vast that it can be seen from outer space. This massive structure is not a single entity but a complex mosaic of interconnected habitats that collectively form one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. Its global significance was recognized in 1981 when it was selected as a World Heritage Site.

The reef's incredible biodiversity is its most defining feature. It provides a home to a staggering array of marine life. Scientists have documented more than 1,500 species of fish, over 400 types of hard coral, and thousands of species of mollusks, sponges, and crustaceans. The reef also serves as a critical habitat for several endangered species, including the dugong (a large marine mammal) and various species of sea turtles. This concentration of life makes the reef a living laboratory for scientific research into marine biology and ecology.

Beyond its biological value, the Great Barrier Reef provides essential ecosystem services. The reef structure acts as a natural barrier, protecting coastal communities from storm surges and erosion. Economically, it is integral to the region's prosperity, supporting a vibrant tourism industry that generates billions of dollars and tens of thousands of jobs annually. Activities like snorkeling, diving, and boat tours depend directly on the health and beauty of the reef, linking its ecological well-being directly to human livelihoods.