Expert: John Baranyai - 2/17/2010

Question
Hello:
I'm working on a project for school about pollution and the Great Barrier Reef and I was hoping you could answer a few questions.


1. What or who are the major causes of pollution to the reef?
2. What animals/creatures/plants/etc need to be protected?
3. What countries should be involved with planning or implementing a solution to the pollution?

Answer
Hi Lorelei,

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living organism on the planet mainly composed of living coral. Sugar cane runoff and fertilizer from gardens and cattle grazing greatly contribute to pollution which consists  of aglal growth which in turn chokes the coral.It is estimated  that 10,000 tonees of phosphorous and 100,000 tonnes of nitrogen pollute the Reef each year.

The REef is home to many sea dwelling creatures such as octopi, turtles,pretty  fish and  sharks find their homethere.Then you have undersea vegetationsuch as sea cucumbers and the like as well as oysters and mussels.These all need to be protected to ensure the correct  balance ofecology in the Reefas it is a delicate living entity.

Neighbouring counties such as  Indonesiashould al be playing a part in preserving the Reef. Our huge import meat industry should also be involved as cattle play a large part in polluting the Reef as stated before.

Best wishes and could you please rate my answer?

John