Sea life of the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef boasts some of the most incredible marine species on the entire planet. As the largest natural wonder on earth, stretching out for more than 2,300 kilometres along the cost of Queensland, there is plenty of room for a range of sea creatures.
Throughout its colourful lengths, there are around 1500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and more than 4000 species of molluscs along with sharks, turtles, dolphins, and sea birds.
Let’s take a look at what you might discover if you go snorkelling or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef.
Fish Species in the Great Barrier Reef
There is an abundance of species of fish that live in the Great Barrier Reef, from smaller species that flit in and out of the ancient corals to larger species that lurk in the deeper waters that surround the reefs. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare and beautiful sea butterfly, as well as the colourful parrotfish and surgeonfish. Of course, there are plenty of clown fish to spot, too, amongst other exotic and fascinating creatures.
Molluscs in the Great Barrier Reef
As well as fish, there is a huge selection of mollusc species that cling to the corals and call the reefs home. You might spot a sea cucumber, a blue seaslug and any number of molluscs with weird and wonderful markings.
Whales in the Great Barrier Reef
From the small to the big, you might be able to catch a glimpse of some of the Great Barrier Reef’s resident whales. In this part of Australia, the minke whales and humpback whales are prominent residents, and can be seen basking in the deeper waters that surround the individual reefs.
Dolphins in the Great Barrier Reef
There are also several pods of dolphins that traverse the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, including a number of spinner dolphins.
Turtles in the Great Barrier Reef
The turtles are some of the most ancient sea creatures in the Great Barrier Reef. They date back thousands of years and have been a part of the reefs since they first made an appearance. When snorkelling and scuba diving, you might find yourself gliding alongside a green sea turtle or two.
Sharks in the Great Barrier Reef
There aren’t many species of shark in the Great Barrier Reef – probably for the best. You might be able to spot a whitetip reef shark or two if you look hard enough.
For more information, please visit https://sightseeingtoursaustralia.com.au/australian-tours/cairns/great-barrier-reef/