Fascinating facts about the Great Barrier Reef

Stretching over 2,300km, the Great Barrier Reef is larger than the Great Wall of China, visible from space, and home to thousands of species that live in symbiotic harmony.

Understanding what makes the reef so unique—how it breathes, spawns, and shelters isn’t just interesting trivia. It helps you experience it more meaningfully when you visit, and reinforces why its preservation matters. Whether you’re a diver, a student, or just reef-curious, these facts will change the way you see this living giant.

The foundation of the reef

Coral may look like underwater rock, but it's anything but lifeless. It's made up of millions of tiny, living polyps, working together to form vast colonies. These colonies create complex, three-dimensional structures that provide shelter, breeding grounds, and food for thousands of marine species.

Types of coral you’ll find on the reef:

• Staghorn Coral – Branching, fast-growing, popular with small reef fish

• Brain Coral – Large and dome-shaped, slow-growing, highly resilient

• Plate Coral – Wide, horizontal corals ideal for shading reef edges

• Soft Corals – More flexible, flow with water currents, often very colorful

• Boulder Coral – Thick, strong, and long-lasting, a keystone of older reef sections

Tips for engaging with the reef responsibly

• Use reef-safe sunscreen: Look for zinc-based or biodegradable options to avoid chemical pollution.

• Don’t touch or stand on coral: Even a single contact can kill fragile polyps and promote disease.

• Avoid taking souvenirs: Shells, sand, and coral are protected. Leave them where you found them.

• Choose eco-certified tour operators: Look for operators that support reef research, limit plastic, and teach conservation.

• Learn before you go: Take time to read up on reef behavior—what glows, what moves, and why it matters.