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Preserving the Great Barrier Reef
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Background
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September 2001
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Coral reefs are one of nature's most magnificent
creations - filled with thousands of unique and valuable
plants and animals. The biodiversity present is staggering
when you consider over one-quarter of all marine species
depend on healthy coral reefs. Humans depend on coral reefs
also. They are the primary source of food and income for
millions of people, produce valuable chemical compounds for
medicines, and provide a natural wave barrier, protecting
beaches and coastlines from storms and floods.
Coral reefs have thrived on earth for over 50
million years, but we have lost over 20% of the world's
reefs in the last 20 years and up to 70% of the reefs may be
destroyed by human activities in the next few decades if we
don't take action now.
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Great Barrier Reef Menu
Up
Assessment
Achievement Task
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The overwhelming diversity of corals in the Great Barrier Reef
Fishing, mud and natural predators threaten to destroy the
Great Barrier Reef
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