The Recovery of the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef has seen a series of coral bleaching events over the past decade,
leading many to worry about its long-term health. However, recent studies have shown that the reef is much more resilient than expected, recovering quickly.

The recovery of the Great Barrier Reef is attributed to a combination of factors:

·       Increased efforts in managing crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks.

·       Implementation of marine protected areas and stronger fishing regulations.

·       Investments in scientific research and monitoring programs.

·       Increased public awareness and advocacy for conservation.

What are crown-of-thorn starfish?

The crown-of-thorns starfish is a voracious predator that feeds on coral polyps and is a significant threat to the Great Barrier Reef. Outbreaks of this species can cause widespread damage to the reef, leading to declines in coral cover and changes in the structure of reef communities.

The exact causes of Crown-of-Thorns outbreaks are still not fully understood, but some factors that have been identified include nutrient enrichment, overfishing of its natural predators, and changes to the reef environment. Management strategies to control crown-of-thorns populations include targeted culling and enhancing the resilience of reef communities through reducing other pressures.

Source:

https://www.aims.gov.au/monitoring-great-barrier-reef/gbr-condition-summary-2021-22