Travel Australia : The Great Barrier Reef

TOP CATEGORIES

BUSINESS NEWS

Travel Australia : The Great Barrier Reef

Date Added: December 10, 2009 08:01:10 AM

Australia is the gateway to the largest coral reef system in the world. The Great Barrier Reef is composed of over 3,000 individual reefs and coral cays. It has over 900 islands spanning 2,600 kilometres. The reef is located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland , Australia . This World Heritage Site is popular for its diverse marine life that lives in an area measuring approximately 344,400 square kilometres. It is home to thirty species of whales, dolphins and porpoises. A large population of dugong, humpback dolphins, and humpback whales also live in the area. Every year, the green sea turtle, leatherback sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle, flatback turtle, hawksbill turtle and olive ridley visit the reef to breed. Close to 125 species of sharks, stingrays, skates and chimera also occupy the reef. The mangrove and saltmarshes are occupied by salt water crocodiles. Mollusks are also in abundance, with over 5,000 species – including the giant clam -- found in the area. The coral garden found beneath the reef is composed of over 400 hundred species of hard and soft corals – making it the largest in the world. The aerial biodiversity is also a marvel with 215 species of birds attracted to the islands on the reef. 22 species of sea birds and 32 species of shorebirds, the white-bellied sea eagle are among fowl life in the area. The spread out landscape is dotted with 2,195 kinds of plant life ranging from the woody to the herbaceous. The astounding plant, animal and sea life on Australia 's Great Barrier Reef , makes it an ideal tourist destination for diving and snorkeling. It has warm, clear waters that are most popular during Australia 's winter season. Floating guest facilities are available as are resorts on different islands. Boat tours and cruises for day trips and longer voyages are available to tourists. Helicopter flights are also available. Tourism is the largest commercial activity along the Queensland coast. Approximately two million locals and Australia visa holders visit the Great Barrier Reef each year. It is easily accessible from the parallel coast of Queensland.About National VisasNational Visas (http://www.nationalvisas.com.au/) provides assistance for your Australia visa application and visa services. Get your any visa for Australia processed very quickly through online! Find advice now for an Australian Immigration.

Bookmark this Article: