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In this video, we will explain what is happening to the Great Barrier Reef.
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The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of northern Australia and is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
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The reef consists of more than 400 types of coral and over 1500 species of fish and is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.
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Stretching over 3000 kilometers and comprising of 3000 individual reef systems.
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It comes as no surprise to learn that it is the only living thing on earth visible from space.
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Unfortunately, due to the effects of global warming, the reef is struggling to keep itself alive.
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In 2016 and 2017, large parts of the reef experienced severe cyclone damage and coral bleaching.
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Scientists are working to reverse the effects of climate change, but fear the rising temperatures worldwide won't allow the reef enough time to regenerate.
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What is coral bleaching, you ask?
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Coral bleaching is when the water temperature rises, causing corals to expel the algae that live on them, turning them white.
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Most importantly, this process rips corals off their food source and they begin to starve.
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The relationship between corals and algae is one that is very unique in the animal/plant world.
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Small photosynthesizing algae turns sunlight into food for the corals in return for a place to live on them.
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They also give corals their beautiful color.
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Scientists around the world are studying these unique ecosystems
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and are trying to figure out how the damage caused by bleaching and other climate change events can be reversed.
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Others question whether the reef can adapt to the pressures and still continue to thrive.
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But many fear the problems facing this beautiful, diverse underwater ecosystem will continue to get worse
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and less serious action is taken against the amount of pollution and greenhouse gases we are producing.
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Humans need to start rethinking their actions before we lose a great wonder of the world.