The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: The Largest Coral Reef System in the World
A fascinating underwater world that attracts thousands of tourists every year. What makes the north-east coast of Australia so special...
There are places that never cease to amaze, no matter how many times you have heard of them. One such place is the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Even if the term "place" is perhaps not the most appropriate. In fact, the Great Barrier Reef is a special nature phenomenon on the north-east coast of Australia. It is a huge coral reef system that extends for around 2,300 km along the coast of the Australian state of Queensland. The size of this coral reef system is therefore difficult to imagine, but in comparison it is larger in area than some European states.
The Great Barrier Reef attracts countless tourists every year, as this phenomenon is even more impressive live - and many therefore want to see it with their own eyes. Anyone who is a fan of underwater worlds should definitely keep Australia and the Great Barrier Reef in mind as a potential travel destination for the future.
World of Wonders
Basically, the Great Barrier Reef is a world of its own, a world of underwater marvels. A coral reef system is created in a fascinating way: Even though coral reefs look like plants or resemble plants, they are the work of animals. Tiny cnidarians deposit limestone, creating the significant limestone ribs. This creates a unique habitat for countless creatures. Not only the most diverse types of corals are at home here, but also thousands of other species of animals and plants. The term biodiversity has never been more appropriate: over five thousand different species are said to live here. It is a giving and a taking, the animals often live in symbiosis, thus creating a unique system of coexistence.
Those who want to marvel at the colourful underwater world themselves can do so as part of an organised boat tour. There are also stand islands that you can visit and from which you can dive and snorkel.
If you're in the area, you should also consider visiting the Museum of Underwater Art in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park - and yes, you guessed it, it really is a museum underwater!
Important to know:
The Great Barrier Reef is unfortunately also evidence of a threatening change, which must not be forgotten. The coral reef is in great danger due to climate change, large parts of the reef are dying, partly because the temperature of the ocean is rising. Those lucky enough to experience the Great Barrier Reef first hand should therefore regard mindful behaviour and support of local nature conservation as a priority.
Photos: Shutterstock.
