Extending 2000 kms the reefs diversity reflects the maturity of this ancient ecosystem.
A site of remarkable variety and beauty, the Great Barrier Reef is a World Heritage site extending 2,000 kms along Australia’s east coast. The Reef's diversity reflects the maturity of the ecosystem, which has evolved over hundreds of thousands of years. It is the world's most extensive coral reef system and is one of the richest areas in terms of faunal diversity containing 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish, and 4,000 types of mollusc.
The reef is also the habitat of whales, dolphins, dugongs, large turtles, a variety of harmless sharks and it is an important habitat for seabirds, shore and land birds.
Contrary to popular belief, the reef is not a continuous barrier, but a broken maze of 2800 coral reefs and hundreds of continental islands, reef islands and cays, small bare sand cays, and permanent vegetated cays. The reefs range in size from less than one hectare to more than 100 000 hectares, and in shape from flat platform reefs to elongated ribbon reefs.
In addition to being the world's largest coral reef ecosystem and a World Heritage listed area it is the world's largest marine protected area.
Aboriginal groups have lived along the Great Barrier Reef region for more than 40,000 years. It is part of their culture and spirituality, and has provided food for their subsistence tribal lifestyle. Today, Aboriginal people live a more modern lifestyle however they still maintain their cultural practices, including traditional hunting.
The coloured coral expanses and gardens of giant clams and other molluscs lie just below the surface of the warm, crystal clear tropical waters so snorkelling is a great way to see the Reef. To reach the deeper recesses scuba diving is available from the island resorts. You may also choose to sail, take a scenic flight, beach-comb, water ski, windsurf, parasail, horse ride and the tropical weather is as perfect for relaxing as it is for all this activity!
