The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority recognises the seriousness of the latest scientific research results from the Australian Institute of Marine Science showing evidence of a widespread slowing of coral growth rates throughout the Great Barrier Reef. 

The research showed widespread decline in coral growth in the major reef-building coral species, Porites, with a sharp drop of 14 per cent since 1990 to the slowest growth rate in four hundred years.

Because the slowing of growth was very widespread, the possibility of local effects are considered less likely as a cause and large scale effects such as rising ocean temperature and acidity are more strongly implicated as likely causes. This research adds to the growing weight of evidence that global climate change is already affecting the Reef.

GBRMPA Chairman Russell Reichelt said healthy coral reefs have greater ability to withstand coral bleaching than coral reefs under stress from pressure such as poor water quality.

“Coral reefs can bounce back from major disturbance if the natural ecosystem is operating normally. Human-induced climate change is a global issue which must, ultimately, be solved at a global level.”

“We can help the Reef by ensuring it is not exposed to local pressures that are readily avoidable. Poor water quality is the most significant local issue."

“The Great Barrier Reef’s ability to survive the global phenomenon of climate change is largely up to us - it is imperative we act now to minimise all stresses to the Reef and in this way help build its resilience to the effects of global warming and changing ocean acidity.”

“This will give us the best chance of having a viable Great Barrier Reef for future generations to enjoy.”

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