The Great Barrier Reef, nestled on the northeast coast of Australia, is the world-famous natural wonder. It is home to extraordinary marine life, especially the pre-historic creatures, that makes it a vital ecosystem for the preservation of aquatic life. Learn more about the interesting facts about Great Barrier Reef that make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a haven for all explorers, and more. This enormous reef is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts alike. From snorkelling to scuba diving, you can immerse yourself in the landscapes where iconic marine species surround you.
9 Facts About Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is among Earth’s diverse marine ecosystems and is home to extraordinary marine life. Check out interesting facts about Great Barrier Reef that make this place world-famous, unique, and a haven for nature and water enthusiasts.
1. The World’s Largest Reef System
The Great Barrier Reef is enormous as it stretches over 2,300 kilometres along the northeastern coast of Australia. It spans approximately 344,400 square kilometres and comprises exotic marine life. The Reef serves as a vital habitat to preserve thousands of species, even those dating back centuries. It is among the captivating Great Barrier Reef facts every traveller should know of.
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2. Captain James Cook: Discovered The Great Barrier Reef
Officially, the British explorer Captain James Cook has been regarded as the one who discovered the world-famous natural marvel, The Great Barrier Reef. In 1770, during his voyage along Australia’s eastern coast, Cook’s crew encountered the vast expanse of lagoons, coral formations, and marine life that sum up the reef. Cook mapped the reef and made detailed observations of this wonder and thus, the study of this fascinating Great Barrier Reef began.
3. Why Is It Called The Great Barrier Reef
The name ‘Great Barrier Reef’ originates from the navigational changes faced by sailors and explorers. The former explorers encountered a barrier of coral formations that stretched more than 2,300 kilometres along the northeast coast of Australia. The huge area of reefs acts as a barrier against the coastline from the full force of the ocean’s storms and waves. The ‘Great’ signifies the vast expanse. In addition, the term ‘Barrier’ reflects its function as a natural barrier to protect the coastline. Therefore, the Great Barrier Reef highlights its natural grandeur and role in shaping the marine environment of Australia.
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4. The Great Barrier Reef: A Million Years Old
Did you know that the Great Barrier Reef is about a million years old? Yes, it is among the remarkable Earth’s natural wonders with home to exotic marine life. From sea turtles and whales to prehistoric creatures, the Great Barrier Reef is the perseverance of an extraordinary marine ecosystem. So, the next time you plan to visit Australia, this iconic destination is hard to miss.
5. Do You Know The Great Barrier Reef Can Be Seen From Space
The Great Barrier Reef is so enormous that it is visible from space. It stretches over 2,300 kilometres along the northeast coast of Australia. Its patterns of coral reefs, islands, and sandbars can be viewed from the orbit. Many astronauts aboard space stations have viewed the beauty of this iconic place and captured its huge size in breathtaking pictures. The incredible visibility from the space is among the intriguing facts about the Great Barrier Reef. It is considered one of the Earth’s remarkable natural wonders with home to an incredible marine life.
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6. Existence Of Prehistoric Species
Did you know that prehistoric marine creatures still reside in the world? As the Great Barrier Reef is home to iconic coral structures dating back millions of years, there is the existence of prehistoric marine life. The alien-like nautilus is among many prehistoric marine creatures living in the Reef. What makes this creature unique is that it appears to have remained relatively unchanged over the past 500 million years. Snorkellers and scuba divers can explore the variety of marine life and have an immersive experience.
7. Home To An Incredible Diversity Of Species
The Great Barrier Reef of Australia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is among the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. With home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life, The Great Barrier Reef plays an important role in preserving the natural wonder for generations to come. From the Great 8 (Whales, Sea Turtles, Sharks, Clownfish, Giant Clams, Rays, Cod and Grouper, and Maori Wrasse) to countless other marine species, the Great Barrier Reef support a vast array of marine creatures.
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8. Corals Spawn Only Once A Year
If you are unsure of what corals mean, these are rock-like structures formed by tiny creatures called polyps. One of the interesting facts about Great Barrier Reef is that corals engage engage in a spectacular event called coral spawning once a year. This phenomenon usually occurs between October to December after a full moon. The process of the release of tiny eggs and sperms into the water is crucial for the reproduction of reef and genetic diversity. Due to a captivating display of colours and activity, marine life is highly attracted. This highlights the interconnectedness of the reef ecosystem within the Great Barrier Reef, the home of the world’s biodiverse marine environments.
9. The Great Eight Of The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, among the most diverse ocean habitats in the world, boats the Great Eight. Apart from distinct marine animals, the Great Barrier Reef houses eight magnificent marine animals, including Whales, Sea Turtles, Sharks, Clownfish, Giant Clams, Rays, Cod and Grouper, and Maori Wrasse. Whether scuba diving or snorkelling, you can witness these eight beautiful marine creatures among others that can bring feelings of absolute awe. This is one of the key facts about Great Barrier Reef that you should know before visiting it to enhance your exploration experience.
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Best Time To Visit Great Barrier Reef
The ideal time to explore the majestic Great Barrier Reef is usually during the dry season, i.e. from June to October. In this season, the skies are clearer, the weather is mostly mild, and there are fewer chances of rainfall. Therefore, it creates suitable weather conditions for exploring the Reef’s exotic marine life and engaging in adrenaline-filled water activities, such as snorkelling and diving. Furthermore, explorers can witness the Reef’s extraordinary coral formations due to better water visibility. During this time of the year, there is the migration of humpback whales, offering one an opportunity to view and experience the creatures in their natural ecosystem.
However, one can have a lifetime experience at the Great Barrier Reef regardless of the weather. As per your interests and convenience, you can choose the best time to explore this ultimate travel destination. Additionally, do not forget to look for accommodation options in advance as this place is visited by many tourists and locals alike.
How To Reach Great Barrier Reef
While looking for the best route and transport option to reach the iconic Great Barrier Reef, do not get confused. With access to multiple focal points from different parts of the country, you can reach this place with ease. Visitors can fly directly to Cairns Airport from major cities, like Sydney. If explorers are travelling from the coastal towns of Australia, there are other suitable options too. All in all, whether you are travelling by air, boat, or helicopter, you can have an exciting journey that will be remembered for a lifetime.
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Get ready to embark on a journey of thrill and excitement where you can indulge in amazing water activities and be on a cruise on the world’s largest Great Barrier Reef. Check out the above-mentioned facts about Great Barrier Reef to know why this iconic destination must be added to your itinerary. So, plan your trip to Australia today to have the best time.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Facts About Great Barrier Reef
What is special about the Great Barrier Reef?
The Great Barrier Reef is a remarkable sight on the northeast coast of Australia. Home to the world’s largest collection of coral reefs, fishes, molluscs, and more. The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s famous destination for all explorers, especially water enthusiasts and nature lovers.
What is the largest reef in the world?
Spanning over an area of approximately 133,000 square miles, the Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest reef system. It stretches over 1,400 miles and is nestled off the coast of Queensland, Australia.
Is the Barrier Reef dead?
No, the Great Barrier Reef is not dead. However, it is struggling with climate change.
Why is it called a Barrier Reef?
Matthew Flinders, an explorer who mapped the Australian coastline named the Great Barrier Reef. As the reef surrounds Australia and protects it against any barrier which is dangerous to ships, it is named the Great Barrier Reef.
Who discovered the Great Barrier Reef?
The British explorer Captain James Cook discovered the Great Barrier Reef when his ship ran ground on it in 1770.
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