Why is the Great Barrier Reef so important?

 The Great Barrier Reef is far more than a colourful tourist attraction.

It’s common knowledge that the Great Barrier Reef is in grave danger. Global warming is creating inhospitable seas and, if something isn’t done, then we could lose the entire coral ecosystem.

But what happens if we lose the reef? Will it have much of an impact? The answer is yes. Here is why the reef is so incredibly important.

• Reefs protect coastlines

  

  Coral reefs form barriers for coastlines, acting as a buffer from the waves and storms that come in from the open ocean. If coral reefs no longer existed, many towns could find themselves battered and bruised by the incoming elements.

• They provide essential habitats

  

  One of the most well-known features of coral reefs is the incredible diversity of life which it contains. If the reef was to disappear, then so would the homes of many creatures. Specifically over 1,500 species of fish, over 100 species of sharks and rays, 30 species of whales and dolphins and 6 varieties of sea turtles. Not to mention, the more than 600 varieties of coral that would be lost.

• Medical research

  Over the years, scientists have used the study of coral reefs to develop new medicines to treat diseases. Some of these treatments have helped with asthma, arthritis, heart disease and cancer. This has been achieved by isolating chemical compounds found within the reef and utilising them to help in the treatment of disease

  Scientists are also studying creatures for other medical purposes. For example, clams help with examining the ageing process. Other creatures help to investigate antiviral and antibacterial properties.

• Purification of the water

  

  Most corals are filter feeders, taking the impurities from the sea and leaving behind clear, healthier waters. Without them, the seas would be a murky place. Sediment and other small particles would end up clouding the environment without the presence of reefs.

• Absorption of carbon dioxide

  Coral reefs are living organisms, playing a crucial role in our environment by recycling carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This happens when the algae that live on the corals absorb the carbon dioxide from the air and use it for photosynthesis. The coral polyps then feed upon the algae and deposit the carbon in the form of limestone. These deposits then continue to build up the rocky structure of the reef.

• It supports healthy fishing industries

  

  Many parts of the world rely on fish as a primary sources of food. Therefore, maintaining a healthy fishing industry is essential. Coral reefs provide a safe haven for fish to reproduce and for the young offspring to grow. If the reef was no longer there, then the young fish would struggle to survive.

• It generates billions of dollars for Australia

  The thriving tourist industry, amongst other things, generates around $6 billion for the Australian economy each year. With hundreds of thousands of people relying on the reef for their income, the effect of it disappearing would be devastating. An inability to enjoy the reef would cause detrimental effects to the Australian economy.

• Climate tracking

  Some parts of the Great Barrier Reef could be millions of years old! Corals have been slowly depositing limestone over the years and these rocky formations are like time capsules. Under careful examination, they can show weather patterns and coral growth. Scientists can study ancient rock samples to track important climatic events over the past thousands of years and track the current state of global warming.

  

What can we do to help?

It’s unlikely that anyone can accurately predict what will happen if the reef disappears. One thing we do know is that the impact would be big. In the meantime, everyone can do their part to protect and save our fantastic reef.

If you are taking a tour of the reef, do you part to find an eco-friendly tour operator. These include informative talks from marine biologists, offsetting carbon emissions and donating to charities.

You can also help protect the reef by wearing reef-friendly sunscreen and not touching the reef. Coral may be durable but it is also sensitive. If you touch the reef, there is a chance you’ll end up breaking off a piece of coral and harming a creature’s habitat. Additionally, when you wear reef-safe sunscreen, you limit the effects of coral bleaching.

These are just a few ways to keep the Great Barrier Reef Safe and allow it to continue playing an important role in the world!

Related article: Tourism and Conservation of the Great Barrier Reef

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.