The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most unbelievable attractions which draws people from around the world to be mesmerised by its unique and fascinating beauty. Due to global warming and other environmental factors, the Great Barrier Reef is, unfortunately, going through a process called coral bleaching, where large segments of coral turn white and are essentially dead.
This epidemic has been happening for several years in different parts of the reef, however, in most popular parts you can still see the reef in its unaffected state, with millions of friendly marine creatures coming out to say hello!
What exactly is coral bleaching?
Coral bleaching is actually an overly complex process that happens over a certain amount of time and occurs when coral becomes stressed by change. This can occur when the temperatures of the ocean waters rise unexpectedly due to climate change, or even when the light and nutrients change within the coral, these changes begin to develop. When stressed the coral release a symbiotic alga that is stored in their flesh, which then causes the coral to turn a bleached white colour.
Despite the common belief that coral is dead after it is bleached, this is actually untrue. Coral is able to survive a bleaching event however its colours will not be as vibrant as they once were.
Where can I see coral that is unbleached?
A great place to head if you wish to see the Great Barrier Reef in its natural state is by heading to the far-north Queensland city of Cairns. Here you can head out to the Great Barrier Reef on a number of different tours and trips, where you can explore the magical reef. The reefs that you will be taken out too when visiting Cairns have not been affected by coral bleaching and still look as vibrant and healthy as ever!
It is recommended that you participate in snorkelling or scuba diving if you want to see the best parts of the reef and as many marine animals as possible. If you don’t enjoy hopping in the water, you can take part in a glass-bottom boat, or semi-submersible submarine where you can see the reef but not be in the water, although this experience isn’t quite as good as actually swimming with turtles and sharks, that’s for sure.
Recommended Great Barrier Reef Tours: Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling & Diving Tour
Price: $205
Website: https://greatbarrierreeftourscairns.com.au/
Company: Sightseeing Tours Australia
