Results for "Coastal Protection"
Modern Encyclopedia Entry 1775441044
** The 'Great Barrier Reef System' is the world's largest coral reef structure, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Australia, and is considered one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The Great Barrier Reef System is a complex network of coral reefs, coral cays, and associated habitats that stretch along the eastern coast of Australia, in the Coral Sea. It is the world's largest coral reef structure, spanning approximately 2,300 kilometers (1,400 miles) in length and covering an area of around 344,400 square kilometers (133,000 square miles). The reef system is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, providing a habitat for an incredible array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. The Great Barrier Reef is not only an awe-inspiring natural wonder but also a vital component of Australia's ecosystem and economy. It supports a significant commercial fishing industry, generates billions of dollars in tourism revenue each year, and provides important coastal protection and shoreline stabilization. However, the reef is facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, overfishing, and coastal development, which have led to significant damage and degradation of the reef over the past few decades. ### History/Background The Great Barrier Reef has been forming for millions of years, with the earliest coral reefs dating back to the Jurassic period, around 180 million years ago. Over time, the reef has grown and evolved through a combination of geological processes, including coral growth, sedimentation, and erosion. The reef has been shaped by a variety of factors, including sea level changes, tectonic activity, and human activities such as fishing and coastal development. The reef has been an important part of Australian culture and history for thousands of years, with indigenous communities living in the surrounding islands and coastal areas for at least 40,000 years. European explorers first encountered the reef in the 17th century, and it was later mapped and explored in the 19th century. The reef was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, recognizing its natural and cultural significance. ### Key Information * The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers (1,400 miles) off the coast of Australia. * The reef system covers an area of around 344,400 square kilometers (133,000 square miles) and is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. * The reef supports an incredible array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. * The reef generates billions of dollars in tourism revenue each year and supports a significant commercial fishing industry. * The reef provides important coastal protection and shoreline stabilization, protecting coastal communities and infrastructure from storms and erosion. ### Significance The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, providing a habitat for an incredible array of marine life. It is also an important component of Australia's ecosystem and economy, generating billions of dollars in tourism revenue each year and supporting a significant commercial fishing industry. However, the reef is facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, overfishing, and coastal development, which have led to significant damage and degradation of the reef over the past few decades. The reef's significance extends beyond its economic and ecological importance, as it also holds great cultural and spiritual significance for indigenous communities. The reef has been an important part of Australian culture and history for thousands of years, and its preservation and protection are essential for the continued well-being of these communities. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Great Barrier Reef System - Type: Coral Reef System - Date: Formed over 180 million years ago - Location: Off the coast of Queensland, Australia - Known For: World's largest coral reef system and one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet **TAGS:** Coral Reef, Marine Life, Biodiversity, Tourism, Fishing, Coastal Protection, Climate Change, Pollution, Conservation.
HistoryModern Encyclopedia Entry 1778652377
** The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Australia, supporting an incredible array of marine life and ecosystems. **CONTENT:** ## Overview The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, comprising more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. Spanning an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometers, it is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The reef is not only a natural wonder but also a vital component of Australia's economy, tourism, and marine ecosystem. The Great Barrier Reef is home to an incredible array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. The reef's complex structure provides a habitat for a vast array of marine species, from tiny fish to massive whales. The reef's coral polyps, tiny animals that secrete a hard, calcium carbonate exoskeleton, are the foundation of the reef's structure. The Great Barrier Reef has been a source of fascination for humans for thousands of years, with indigenous Australian communities living in harmony with the reef for at least 40,000 years. European explorers first encountered the reef in the 17th century, and it has since become a popular destination for tourists and scientists alike. ## History/Background The Great Barrier Reef has a complex and dynamic history, shaped by geological, climatic, and human factors. The reef's formation began around 20 million years ago, when coral polyps first began to colonize the area. Over time, the coral polyps grew and accumulated, forming the complex structure of the reef. The reef has been shaped by numerous geological events, including sea-level changes, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. Human impact on the reef began in the 19th century, with the introduction of fishing and other extractive industries. In the 20th century, the reef faced significant threats from pollution, overfishing, and coastal development. In 1975, the Australian government established the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park to protect the reef and its surrounding waters. The park has since been expanded and strengthened, with the establishment of numerous protected areas and regulations to limit human impact. ## Key Information The Great Barrier Reef is a vital component of Australia's marine ecosystem, supporting a wide range of marine species and providing important ecosystem services such as coastal protection and water filtration. The reef is also a significant economic driver, generating over AUD 6.4 billion per year in tourism revenue and supporting thousands of jobs. Some of the key facts about the Great Barrier Reef include: - The reef is home to an incredible array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish and 600 species of coral. - The reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. - The reef is a vital component of Australia's marine ecosystem, supporting a wide range of marine species and providing important ecosystem services. - The reef is a significant economic driver, generating over AUD 6.4 billion per year in tourism revenue and supporting thousands of jobs. ## Significance The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, supporting an incredible array of marine life and ecosystems. The reef's significance extends beyond its natural beauty and economic importance, as it also provides important ecosystem services such as coastal protection and water filtration. The reef's health is a key indicator of the health of the planet, and its decline has significant implications for the global ecosystem. Climate change, pollution, and overfishing are all major threats to the reef's health, and urgent action is needed to protect this vital ecosystem. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Great Barrier Reef - Type: Coral Reef System - Date: 20 million years ago (formation) - Location: Off the coast of Queensland, Australia - Known For: World's largest coral reef system, supporting an incredible array of marine life and ecosystems. **TAGS:** Coral Reef, Marine Ecosystem, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Pollution, Overfishing, Coastal Protection, Water Filtration, Tourism.
HistoryModern Encyclopedia Entry 1782582366
** The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, supporting an incredible array of marine life. This natural wonder is not only a breathtaking sight to behold but also plays a vital role in the health of the planet. The reef system is composed of coral polyps, tiny animals that secrete a hard, calcium carbonate exoskeleton, which provides the framework for the reef. Over time, the coral polyps have built up this massive structure, which is now home to an estimated 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures, including sharks, rays, and turtles. The Great Barrier Reef is not just a natural wonder; it is also a significant economic driver for the region. Tourism is a major industry, with millions of visitors each year drawn to the reef's beauty and diversity. The reef also supports commercial fishing and shipping, and it provides important coastal protection for the cities and towns along its coast. However, the reef is facing significant threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing, which are putting its very existence at risk. ### History/Background The Great Barrier Reef has been forming for millions of years, with the earliest coral reefs dating back to the Devonian period, around 416 million years ago. Over time, the reef has grown and evolved, with the coral polyps building up the framework and the sea creatures inhabiting the reef. The reef has been shaped by geological events, including the rise and fall of sea levels, and the movement of tectonic plates. The reef has been home to indigenous Australian communities for thousands of years, who have a deep spiritual connection to the reef and its creatures. European explorers first encountered the reef in the 17th century, and it was later mapped and explored in the 18th and 19th centuries. The reef has been protected by the Australian government since the 1970s, with the establishment of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which covers an area of over 344,400 square kilometers. ### Key Information * The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. * The reef is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. * The reef supports an estimated 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures. * The reef is home to the world's largest population of dugongs and green turtles. * The reef is a significant economic driver for the region, supporting tourism, commercial fishing, and shipping. * The reef provides important coastal protection for the cities and towns along its coast. ### Significance The Great Barrier Reef is not just a natural wonder; it is also a vital component of the planet's ecosystem. The reef provides important services, including: * Coastal protection: The reef helps to protect the coast from wave action and erosion. * Biodiversity: The reef supports an incredible array of marine life, including many endangered species. * Climate regulation: The reef helps to regulate the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. * Economic benefits: The reef supports tourism, commercial fishing, and shipping, providing important economic benefits for the region. However, the reef is facing significant threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing, which are putting its very existence at risk. If we do not take action to protect the reef, we risk losing one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Great Barrier Reef - Type: Coral Reef System - Date: Formed over 416 million years ago - Location: Off the coast of Queensland, Australia - Known For: World's largest coral reef system and home to an incredible array of marine life **TAGS:** Coral Reef, Marine Life, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Pollution, Overfishing, Coastal Protection, Tourism, Economic Benefits.
HistoryModern Encyclopedia Entry 1777384935
** The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Australia, and is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The Great Barrier Reef is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that stretches over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. This incredible ecosystem is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, providing a habitat for an estimated 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures, including sharks, rays, and turtles. The Great Barrier Reef is not only a breathtaking sight to behold but also plays a crucial role in the health of the planet, supporting commercial fisheries, tourism, and protecting coastlines from erosion. The reef's sheer size and complexity make it a challenging environment to navigate, with strong currents and shallow waters posing a threat to even the most experienced sailors. However, the rewards are well worth the risks, as the Great Barrier Reef offers some of the most spectacular snorkeling and diving opportunities in the world. Visitors can explore the vibrant coral gardens, witness the majesty of manta rays and whale sharks, and experience the thrill of swimming alongside tropical fish of every color. Despite its incredible beauty and importance, the Great Barrier Reef is facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Rising sea temperatures are causing coral bleaching, while pollution from land-based activities is harming the delicate balance of the ecosystem. As a result, the reef is in urgent need of conservation efforts to protect its future. ### History/Background The Great Barrier Reef has been a part of Australian culture and history for thousands of years, with indigenous Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples having lived in harmony with the reef for centuries. The reef was first mapped by European explorers in the 18th century, with Captain James Cook being one of the first to document its existence in 1770. Over the years, the reef has been the subject of scientific study, with researchers working to understand its complex ecosystem and the impact of human activities on its health. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Great Barrier Reef became a popular destination for tourists, with the establishment of resorts and hotels along the coast. However, this increased human activity also brought new threats to the reef, including overfishing and pollution. In response, the Australian government established the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in 1975, which provided a protected area for the reef and its inhabitants. ### Key Information The Great Barrier Reef is an incredible ecosystem that supports a vast array of marine life. Some of the key species found in the reef include: - **Coral:** The reef is composed of more than 600 species of coral, including stony corals, soft corals, and black corals. - **Fish:** The reef is home to an estimated 1,500 species of fish, including parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. - **Manta Rays:** These gentle giants can be found in the reef, feeding on plankton and small fish. - **Whale Sharks:** The largest fish in the world, whale sharks can grow up to 20 meters in length and are a popular sight for divers and snorkelers. - **Turtles:** Six species of turtle can be found in the reef, including green turtles, loggerhead turtles, and hawksbill turtles. ### Significance The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most significant ecosystems on the planet, providing a range of benefits to both the environment and human communities. Some of the key reasons why the Great Barrier Reef matters include: - **Biodiversity:** The reef is home to an incredible array of marine life, including many species found nowhere else on Earth. - **Tourism:** The reef is a major tourist destination, generating billions of dollars in revenue each year. - **Commercial Fisheries:** The reef supports a significant commercial fishing industry, providing a source of income for many communities. - **Coastal Protection:** The reef helps to protect coastlines from erosion and damage from storms. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Great Barrier Reef - **Type:** Coral Reef System - **Date:** Formed over 20 million years ago - **Location:** Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia - **Known For:** World's largest coral reef system, home to incredible biodiversity and a major tourist destination. **TAGS:** Coral Reef, Marine Life, Biodiversity, Tourism, Commercial Fisheries, Coastal Protection, Climate Change, Pollution, Conservation.
HistoryModern Encyclopedia Entry 1780391285
** The Great Barrier Reef, one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, is a complex network of coral reefs stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Australia. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. Spanning over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia, this natural wonder is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also home to an incredible array of marine life. The reef system is so vast that it can be seen from space, and its sheer size and complexity have captivated the imagination of scientists, explorers, and the general public for centuries. The Great Barrier Reef is not just a natural wonder; it is also a vital component of Australia's ecosystem and economy. The reef supports a diverse array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. The reef also provides important coastal protection, helping to reduce the impact of storms and waves on the Australian coastline. Despite its importance, the Great Barrier Reef faces numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Rising sea temperatures have caused widespread coral bleaching, while pollution from land-based activities has damaged the reef's delicate ecosystem. As a result, the reef has been listed as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). ### History/Background The Great Barrier Reef has been a part of Australian culture and history for thousands of years. Indigenous Australians have lived in harmony with the reef for at least 40,000 years, using its resources for food, shelter, and spiritual practices. European explorers first encountered the reef in the 17th century, with Captain James Cook being one of the first to map its extent in 1770. In the 19th century, the reef became a popular destination for tourists and scientists, with many expeditions and surveys being conducted to explore its depths and learn more about its unique ecosystem. The reef was declared a national park in 1975, and in 1981, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ### Key Information - **Size:** The Great Barrier Reef stretches over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. - **Marine Life:** The reef is home to over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. - **Coral:** The reef is composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. - **Economic Importance:** The reef supports a significant tourism industry, with millions of visitors each year. - **Threats:** The reef faces numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. ### Significance The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, and its loss would have significant consequences for the environment, economy, and culture. The reef's importance extends beyond its natural beauty and economic value, as it also provides important coastal protection and supports a unique array of marine life. The reef's significance can be seen in its impact on the global community. The reef's decline has been used as a warning about the dangers of climate change and the importance of protecting the world's natural wonders. The reef's conservation has also led to the development of new technologies and strategies for protecting coral reefs around the world. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Great Barrier Reef - **Type:** Coral Reef System - **Date:** 40,000 years ago (Indigenous Australian presence) - **Location:** Off the coast of Queensland, Australia - **Known For:** World's largest coral reef system, home to over 1,500 species of fish and 600 species of coral. **TAGS:** Coral Reef, Marine Life, Climate Change, Pollution, Overfishing, Coastal Protection, Tourism, Conservation.
HistoryModern Encyclopedia Entry 1781333044
** The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Australia, supporting an incredible array of marine life and ecosystems. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, comprising more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. Spanning over 344,400 square kilometers, it is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. This natural wonder has captivated the imagination of scientists, explorers, and the general public for centuries, with its vibrant coral, diverse marine life, and complex ecosystems. The Great Barrier Reef is not just a natural wonder but also a vital component of the Australian economy, generating billions of dollars in tourism revenue each year. The reef supports a wide range of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. The reef's complex ecosystems also provide important coastal protection, supporting commercial fisheries, and serving as a nursery for many marine species. Despite its importance, the Great Barrier Reef is facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Rising sea temperatures have caused widespread coral bleaching, while pollution from land-based activities has damaged the reef's delicate ecosystems. As a result, the Great Barrier Reef has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in danger, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts to protect this natural wonder. ### History/Background The Great Barrier Reef has been a part of human history for thousands of years, with evidence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in the region dating back at least 40,000 years. European explorers first encountered the reef in the 17th century, with Captain James Cook being the first European to navigate the reef in 1770. The reef was initially considered a navigational hazard, but its natural beauty and diversity soon captivated the imagination of scientists and explorers. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Great Barrier Reef was the subject of extensive scientific study, with the establishment of the Queensland Museum and the Australian Institute of Marine Science. These organizations played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the reef's ecosystems and the impact of human activities on the reef. ### Key Information - **Size:** The Great Barrier Reef spans over 344,400 square kilometers, making it the largest coral reef system in the world. - **Marine Life:** The reef supports an incredible array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. - **Economic Importance:** The Great Barrier Reef generates billions of dollars in tourism revenue each year, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing to the Australian economy. - **UNESCO World Heritage Site:** The Great Barrier Reef was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, recognizing its natural beauty and cultural significance. - **Coral Bleaching:** Rising sea temperatures have caused widespread coral bleaching, with an estimated 30% of the reef's coral dying in 2016 and 2017. - **Pollution:** Pollution from land-based activities has damaged the reef's delicate ecosystems, with plastic pollution, sedimentation, and nutrient pollution all posing significant threats. ### Significance The Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder that has captivated the imagination of scientists, explorers, and the general public for centuries. Its incredible diversity of marine life, complex ecosystems, and economic importance make it a vital component of the Australian ecosystem. However, the reef is facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts to protect this natural wonder. The Great Barrier Reef is not just a natural wonder but also a cultural icon, with its beauty and diversity inspiring countless works of art, literature, and music. Its importance extends beyond its natural beauty, with the reef providing important coastal protection, supporting commercial fisheries, and serving as a nursery for many marine species. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Great Barrier Reef - **Type:** Coral Reef System - **Date:** 40,000 years ago (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander presence) - **Location:** Off the coast of Queensland, Australia - **Known For:** World's largest coral reef system, supporting an incredible array of marine life and ecosystems **TAGS:** Coral Reef, Marine Life, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Climate Change, Pollution, Overfishing, Coastal Protection, Commercial Fisheries, Tourism, Australian Economy, Natural Wonder, Cultural Icon, Biodiversity, Ecosystems.
HistoryModern Encyclopedia Entry 1783086511
** The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, and is considered one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. **CONTENT:** ### Overview The Great Barrier Reef is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that has captivated the imagination of people for centuries. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers (1,400 miles) off the coast of Queensland, Australia, it is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of more than 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. This vast underwater landscape is home to an incredible array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. The Great Barrier Reef is not only a breathtaking sight to behold but also a vital component of the Earth's ecosystem, providing essential services such as coastal protection, water filtration, and habitat for countless species. The Great Barrier Reef has been a source of fascination for indigenous Australians for thousands of years, with many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities having a deep spiritual connection to the reef. European explorers first encountered the reef in the 17th century, and it has since become a popular destination for tourists and scientists alike. Despite its natural beauty and importance, the Great Barrier Reef is facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing, which have had devastating impacts on its health and resilience. ### History/Background The Great Barrier Reef has been forming for over 20 million years, with coral growth accelerated by the warm, tropical waters of the Coral Sea. The reef has undergone numerous changes over the centuries, including periods of rapid growth and decline, due to factors such as sea level changes, storms, and human activities. The first recorded European sighting of the reef was by British explorer James Cook in 1770, who named it the "Great Barrier Reef" due to its massive size and potential danger to navigation. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Great Barrier Reef was subject to extensive fishing and pearling, which had significant impacts on the reef's ecosystem. The introduction of modern fishing gear and techniques in the mid-20th century further exacerbated the problem, leading to widespread overfishing and habitat destruction. In response to these concerns, the Australian government established the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in 1975, which provided a framework for the conservation and management of the reef. ### Key Information * The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, covering an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometers (133,000 square miles). * The reef is home to over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other creatures such as sharks, rays, and turtles. * The Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding natural beauty and biodiversity. * The reef provides essential services such as coastal protection, water filtration, and habitat for countless species. * The Great Barrier Reef is facing numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing, which have had devastating impacts on its health and resilience. ### Significance The Great Barrier Reef is an irreplaceable natural wonder that plays a critical role in the health of the planet. Its loss would have far-reaching consequences for the environment, the economy, and human well-being. The reef's significance extends beyond its natural beauty and biodiversity, providing essential services such as coastal protection, water filtration, and habitat for countless species. The Great Barrier Reef is also an important cultural and spiritual site for indigenous Australians, who have a deep connection to the reef and its history. In recognition of its importance, the Australian government has established a range of conservation and management initiatives to protect the Great Barrier Reef. These efforts include the creation of marine protected areas, the development of sustainable fishing practices, and the implementation of policies to reduce pollution and climate change impacts. While these efforts are essential, they are not enough to ensure the long-term survival of the Great Barrier Reef. It is imperative that we take immediate action to address the threats facing the reef and ensure its continued health and resilience for future generations. **INFOBOX:** - Name: The Great Barrier Reef - Type: Coral Reef System - Date: Formed over 20 million years ago - Location: Off the coast of Queensland, Australia - Known For: World's largest coral reef system, home to incredible biodiversity and essential ecosystem services **TAGS:** Coral Reef, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Pollution, Overfishing, Coastal Protection, Water Filtration, Habitat, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Indigenous Australian Culture.