Coral – The Living Wonder of the Great Barrier Reef

Coral on the Great Barrier Reef

  • Coral is a living animal.  Tiny creatures called polyps join together to form colonies, actively building reef structures over thousands of years.
  • Hard and soft corals.  The reef is home to over 400 species, including stony reef-builders and flowing soft corals that add vibrant colour and texture.
  • Home to thousands of species. Coral reefs support over 25% of all marine life, including turtles, fish, sharks, rays, and countless invertebrates.
  • Coral gets its colour from algae. Coral polyps live in harmony with microscopic algae (zooxanthellae) that give coral its colour and energy.
  • You can snorkel over coral gardens – Many reef tours from Cairns, Port Douglas and the islands include snorkelling over shallow coral bommies teeming with life.
  • Reefs play a vital role in our planet’s health—they protect coastlines, support marine food chains, attract tourism, and contribute to groundbreaking medical research.
  • Coral needs our protection. – Rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and overuse can damage coral, but you can help by using reef-safe sunscreen and choosing eco-certified tours.

Discover Coral on the Great Barrier Reef

Coral is the heartbeat of the Great Barrier Reef — a living, breathing ecosystem supporting thousands of marine species and captivating everyone visiting. Often mistaken for rock or plant, coral comprises tiny animals called coral polyps, which work together to build intricate reef structures over thousands of years. These coral colonies form the vibrant underwater cities that make the reef one of Earth’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

🌈 A World of Colour and Life

From fluorescent blues and fiery oranges to soft pastels and golden branching towers, the colours and shapes of coral are as diverse as the marine life they support. Over 400 species can be found on the Great Barrier Reef, creating habitats for fish, sea turtles, molluscs, rays, sharks and more. These reefs are alive with movement — from darting damselfish to swaying anemones — all thriving within the protection of coral structures.

🧬 What Is Coral Made Of?

Each coral is made up of tiny, soft-bodied animals called polyps. These polyps live in colonies and secrete calcium carbonate, which forms the hard skeleton we recognise as the reef. Coral polyps have a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live inside their tissue. These algae provide energy through photosynthesis and are responsible for much of the coral’s colour — a delicate balance essential to reef health.

🌊 Types

There are two main types:
🔗 Hard Coral – These reef-building corals form the sturdy skeletons that shape the structure of the reef. They grow slowly but form the foundation of the ecosystem.
🔗 Soft Coral – Unlike hard coral, soft corals are flexible and often resemble underwater plants or trees. They add incredible texture and movement to the reef landscape.

Each plays a vital role in the health of the Great Barrier Reef — and both can be seen while snorkelling or diving across the region.

🐠 Why Coral Is So Important

Coral reefs are often called the rainforests of the sea. They cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support over 25% of all marine life. Coral also plays a key role in protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting tourism and fisheries, and inspiring scientific discoveries. Protecting coral means protecting the reef — and the countless people and animals who depend on it.

🌱 Coral Bleaching and Reef Conservation

Coral is incredibly resilient, but it’s also vulnerable. Changes in water temperature, pollution, and other human impacts can lead to coral bleaching, where the zooxanthellae are expelled, leaving coral white and at risk. Thankfully, many operators on the Great Barrier Reef are now eco-certified, supporting coral conservation and reef restoration programs. Every visitor plays a part — by choosing reef-safe sunscreen, following guidelines, and learning more about this remarkable ecosystem.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is coral — is it a plant, rock, or animal?
Coral is a living marine animal! Each coral colony comprises thousands of tiny animals called polyps, which build calcium carbonate skeletons and form the reef structure over time.

What’s the difference between hard and soft coral?
Hard corals build the reef’s structure with a rigid skeleton, while soft corals are more flexible and often resemble colourful underwater trees or fans. Both are essential to the reef’s biodiversity.

Why is coral so important to the reef?
It provides food and shelter for thousands of marine species. It also protects coastlines from erosion, supports tourism and fishing industries, and plays a vital role in the ocean’s health.

What causes bleaching?
Bleaching happens when corals become stressed by warm water temperatures or pollution. They expel the algae that give them colour and energy, turning white and more vulnerable.

Can I see coral up close on a reef tour?
Yes! Many snorkelling and diving tours let you experience coral gardens up close. Remember to follow reef-safe guidelines, never touch, and choose eco-certified operators to help protect it.

💚 Experience the Coral for Yourself

The best way to understand the magic of coral is to see it up close. Whether snorkelling from Green Island, scuba diving the outer reef, or floating above a bommie on a glass-bottom boat tour, you’ll discover a world unlike any other — teeming with life, colour and wonder.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef Today