Great Barrier Reef

The world famous Great Barrier Reef  is the largest coral reef in the world. It sits almost parallel to the coast of Queensland in Australia and is around 2,000km in size. Australia has almost 1/5th of the world's reef area and most is located in the (GBR) Great Barrier Reef.

Reefs are created in areas where the temperatures doesnt drop lower than 18 degrees Celsius (64 Fahrenheit) for lany length of time. The water also needs to be very clear so light penetrates.

Corals found in the Great Barrier Reef contain algae and the relationship between the algae produce oxygen and help the coral to remove wastes. When this relationship breaks down, the coral suffers and becomes bleached. Bleaching is a major worry for those looking after reef health, as coral dies if bleaching is prolonged.

Washed by the warm waters of the South-West Pacific Ocean the perfect environment is created for the world's largest system of coral reefs.  The Great Barrier Reef is of such pristine condition that it was listed by the World Heritage Trust as a protected site and is therefore managed by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to ensure that its beauty is maintained for many holiday makers and siteseers to come.

Thousands of tourists and visitors ivisit the Great Barrier Reef and with a rainforest on one side and the Great Barrier Reef on the other. No other place in the world offers such a diverse environment.

Great Barrier Reef Wikipedia Page http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Barrier_Reef

Hi mi name is kolton,

I get homeschooles. I am 7 year's Old. Will you please send me picture of the great berrier reef. my email is gillilanboyzracing@gmail.com