Great Barrier Reef at a Glance
Visible from outer space, the Great Barrier Reef runs the entire length of
Queensland. Created
by living coral over the span of 18 million years, the reef is 2,000 km (1,243
mi) long, and in places more than 500 m (1,640 ft) thick. Particular about its
living conditions, Queensland's coastal waters prove ideal for sustaining both
living coral and the hard skeleton left when it dies. Approximately 2,600 smaller
reefs and 400 types of coral comprise the Great Barrier, some of which are poisonous,
and thousands of species of fish, sponge, crustaceans and molluscs find their
habitats here. A natural wonder of the world, it is punishable by law to touch
or remove any piece of the reef.
Northern Queensland's coast is mere 50 km (30 mi) from the reef, and cities
like Cairns,
Townsville,
Port Douglas
and Mackay
offer several tours and excursions to areas suitable for snorkeling and diving.
Live aboards, or floating guest accommodations make it possible to spend several
days studying the reef, its delicate balance protected by the Great Barrier
Reef Marine Park Authority.
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