Today we explored the Great Barrier Reef from afar at ReefHQ. This aquarium is run by the Great Barrier Reef and Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA), and we had the unique opportunity to learn about the reef and its managements from the experts. The protected area is roughly the size of 70 million football fields, and is home to over 2000 coral reefs. In order to regulate use, the marine park is zoned. Each zone has different rules about tourism, fishing, and shipping.
Monitoring the health and diversity within the reef is paramount to its conservation. The GBRMPA has started the Eye on the Reef program and app, where anybody, from one-time snorkelers to professional divers, can enter information on what they saw.
We were also given a guided tour of the aquarium. This was a first for me, and it was exciting to be able to ask a professional any questions we had along the way. Our guide, Kathy, pointed out fish families that we were likely to see on the reef when snorkeling. These included triggerfish, wrasse, surgeonfish, parrotfish, damselfish, and grouper. We also met some of the other animals we’re likely to encounter, such as sea stars, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins.
We were also given a rundown of multiple threats that the reef faces. Pollution and climate change are large, well known contributors, but we also focused on the crown of thorns sea star. This sea star eats coral polyps, killing the coral. About every 15 years they experience a population boom, and they become a devastating problem. The sea stars overwhelm coral reefs, leaving a widespread trial of bleached coral in its wake. Scientists are studying why these booms happen and how we can keep the sea star population in check.
This was, by far, the most fun and informative aquarium visit I’ve ever had. I look forward to keeping up with the GBRMPA’s efforts in reef conservation!
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