Conservation Measures for the Great Barrier Reef

To protect the Great Barrier Reef, various conservation measures have been proposed and implemented:

1. Restriction of fishing in sensitive areas
2. Reduction of pollution from land-based sources
3. Ban on the development of new harbors near the reef
4. Implementation of combat diving patrols to monitor reef health
5. Regulation of tourism activities
6. Creation of artificial reefs to relieve pressure on natural reefs

Example: The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has implemented a zoning plan that restricts activities in different areas of the reef to balance conservation with sustainable use.

These measures aim to mitigate human impacts and preserve the reef's biodiversity for future generations.

Threats to the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef faces numerous threats, primarily from human activities:

1. Overfishing
2. Ocean acidification
3. Land reclamation
4. Damage from divers and tourists
5. Global warming
6. Installation of cables and oil pipelines
7. Pollution and waste

Highlight: Climate change is considered one of the most significant threats to the Great Barrier Reef, causing coral bleaching events and altering ocean chemistry.

These threats have led to significant degradation of the reef over recent decades, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts.

Discovery and Origin of the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef was discovered by James Cook in 1770 during his voyage along the east coast of Australia. Cook's ship ran aground on a coral reef during a storm, leading to the reef's discovery.

Quote: "The northern part is the oldest, about 20 million years old."

The reef's formation occurred gradually:

• Northern section: Formed ~20 million years ago
• Central and southern sections: Formed ~2 million years ago
• Visible parts today: Formed ~10,000 years ago

The reef spread southwards as the seabed sank and sea levels rose over millions of years.

Vocabulary: Seabed - The floor of the ocean or sea.