Explore the Wonders of the Great Barrier Reef: Ultimate Travel Guide

Here is a comprehensive summary of the **Great Barrier Reef (Great Barrier Reef)**, covering its characteristics, scientific knowledge, and tourism resources:
I. Scientific Knowledge
1. Formation Process
Coral polyps obtain energy through photosynthesis with symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae), and after calcification, they form coral reefs.

2. Ecological Significance
It provides breeding, foraging, and habitat for global marine life, serving as a key link in the marine ecosystem.
Coral reefs can buffer wave energy, protecting coastlines from erosion.
3. Environmental Threats
Coral Bleaching: Due to rising sea temperatures, zooxanthellae are lost, causing corals to lose their color and source of nutrition (mass bleaching events in 2016-2017).

Ocean acidification, agricultural runoff pollution (fertilizers and sediments), overfishing, and tourism pressure.
4. Biodiversity
Contains about 3,000 individual reefs, 600 continental islands, and 300 coral cays.
– Home to over 1,500 species of fish, 411 species of hard corals, 134 species of sharks and rays, and endangered species such as green turtles and dugongs.

5. Geological Structure
Formed by the accumulation of calcium carbonate skeletons secreted by billions of coral polyps, with some reef structures being over 20 million years old.
II. Tourism Resources
1. Main Activities
Snorkeling and Diving: Popular spots include the Whitsundays, Cairns, and Lizard Island.

Glass-bottom boat tours: Suitable for non-divers to view corals and fish (such as Green Island and Magnetic Island).
Helicopter tours: Overlooking Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach.
2. Featured Attractions
Wreck Sites: Such as the SS Yongala wreck (1911), now a top diving site.
Indigenous Cultural Experiences: Learning traditional marine ecological knowledge from local indigenous people.

3. Travel Tips
Best Season: June to October (suitable water temperature, high visibility).
Eco-friendly Measures: Choose eco-certified tour operators, avoid touching corals or using harmful sunscreens.