The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s oldest coral reef

Australia's "Great Barrier Reef" is one of the largest coral reef systems in the world and is known as one of the most magnificent natural wonders on earth. Not only is it an important tourist attraction in Australia, it is also a treasure trove of coral reef ecosystems. But, you know what? This world-famous coral reef has a history of more than 5 million years!

According to research by scientists, the origin of the Great Barrier Reef can be traced back to the Neogene period 5 million years ago. During this period, local crustal movements and climate changes caused sea levels to rise, forming today's coastline. At the same time, it also laid the foundation for the formation of the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is composed of about 2,900 coral reefs of different sizes. They extend from Queensland, Australia to the Torres Strait, with a total length of about 2,300 kilometers and an area of ??344,400 square kilometers. The Great Barrier Reef is built from the remains and remains of countless coral polyps and microorganisms that lived in warm, shallow waters over thousands of years to form the reef. These reefs are like an undersea city, nurturing countless marine life and becoming a rich and colorful marine ecosystem.

However, due to the impact of climate change and human activities, the Great Barrier Reef is facing huge threats. Rising ocean temperatures and acidification of seawater caused by global warming have caused great damage to coral reefs. In addition, industrial pollution, overfishing and marine plastic pollution around the Great Barrier Reef have also caused immeasurable damage to this beautiful ecosystem. Scientists have begun taking action to try to protect the Great Barrier Reef's ecology, but this remains a huge challenge.

In general, the Great Barrier Reef is a wonderful world full of life, and its ancient history and colorful ecological environment are amazing.

It also reminds us that cherishing and protecting the environment is everyone's obligation and responsibility!