The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is currently facing an array of environmental challenges due to recent floods in northern Australia. This has led to a significant decrease in water quality, a drop in sunlight required by the reef for growth, and fostering growth of destructive threat species.
Effects of Flood Runoff on the Great Barrier Reef
Flood waters from northern Australia carry sediment and pollutants that are drastically impacting various parts of the Great Barrier Reef. The runoff flows onto the coral reefs, resulting in diminished light penetration, essential for their growth and health. Moreover, the runoff is also driving the expansion of the predatory crown-of-thorns starfish population, which is detrimental to the coral populations.
The Crown-Of-Thorns Starfish: A Predatory Threat
This particular type of starfish is known to consume coral, hence an increase in its numbers poses a significant threat to the health of the reef. The degradation in water quality due to pollution and agricultural runoff boosts algae growth, which provides a rich food source for the crown-of-thorns starfish facilitating their proliferation on the reef.
Impact of Sedimentation on Sunlight Penetration
Sedimentation caused by flood runoff spills onto the reef reduces water clarity and blocks sunlight. Sunlight is essential for both coral reefs and seagrass to maintain their growth and overall health. The reduced water quality and sunlight due to sedimentation exacerbates the problems faced by an already stressed reef system.
The Compounding Problem of Coral Bleaching
Coral bleaching incidents in 2016 and 2017, linked to rising sea temperatures due to climate change, have further weakened the reef. Large swathes of coral were killed during these events, leaving the reef more vulnerable to current threats.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size of the reef | World’s largest coral reef system, covering approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq mi) |
| Location | Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia |
| Composition | Made up of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometres |
| Diversity | Supports a wide variety of life |
| Status | Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981 |
Overview of the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is an awe-inspiring natural wonder, visible from space, and is the world’s biggest single structure made by living organisms. It is composed of billions of tiny organisms known as coral polyps. This magnificent structure, with its rich biodiversity, was recognized and designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981. Located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, Australia, it encompasses over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometres. Despite its size and significance, the Great Barrier Reef is under threat and requires significant conservation and protection measures to ensure its survival into the future.