If you’re planning a trip to the Great Barrier Reef, you’re probably curious to know what species you might be swimming with on your tour. As one of the world’s most biodiverse habitats, the Great Barrier Reef’s animals are incredibly varied, boasting everything from vibrant fish and placid sea turtles to beautiful reef sharks, playful dolphins, and more.
Keep on reading to learn what animals live in the Great Barrier Reef and discover just how important this diverse ecosystem really is.
How Many Animals Live in the Great Barrier Reef?
The marine life in the Great Barrier Reef includes over 9,000 different species, with marine scientists predicting that many more are yet to be discovered. Currently, the reef harbours roughly 1,500 types of fish, over 400 coral varieties, and more than 1,000 types of molluscs. On top of this, it boasts numerous other species of sea anemones, turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, rays, and more.
A true haven of biodiversity, this fascinating area supports more than just sea life. Its rich ecosystem serves as a fantastic food source for various types of birds, with many choosing to live and raise their young on the reef’s surrounding islands.
Great Barrier Reef Fish Species
With well over 1,000 species of fish in the reef, you’re sure to spot plenty of colourful critters when visiting its tropical waters. One of the most beloved species to hang around these colourful corals is the Clownfish, a small, bright orange fish that lives symbiotically with sea anemones. With many visitors recognising this little fish from the hit movie Finding Nemo, the Clownfish has become a real mascot for the reef over the years.
As well as Clownfish, you’re likely to spot a range of other notable fish species on your reef trip. These include the dazzling Surgeonfish (including the brilliant Blue Tang you may recognise as Nemo’s famed friend, Dory), the beautifully coloured Parrotfish, the elegant Butterflyfish, and the striking Angelfish.
Types of Coral in the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef hosts a rich variety of coral species, which are broadly categorised into two main types: hard corals and soft corals. Both of these coral types play a vital role in maintaining the reef’s biodiverse ecosystem, providing vital food and shelter for many species.
Other Great Barrier Reef Animals
The Great Barrier Reef has a number of animals beyond its diverse fish population. These organisms all contribute to the complex and intricate web of life that makes the Great Barrier Reef one of the most biodiverse and ecologically significant environments on the planet.
From incredible whales and sea turtles to colourful crustaceans and handsome sea birds, you’ll find all sorts of amazing creatures exploring the reef alongside you, including:
Marine Mammals
There are over 30 species of whales and dolphins that contribute to the diverse marine life in the Great Barrier Reef. Spinner dolphins are the most popular dolphin species in this area and are aptly named due to the aerial performance they like to put on when they leap from the water.
Many types of whales, including the humpback whale, can also be spotted migrating through the reef during the winter and spring months. Travelling with their curious newborn calves, these whales will often stop to peer at the human visitors on their journey.
As well as whales and dolphins, the Great Barrier Reef is also home to the gentle dugong. Often referred to as “sea cows”, these placid mammals can regularly be seen grazing on the seagrasses in the shallow coastal waters of the reef.
Aquatic Reptiles
The reef’s warm waters also create the perfect habitat for several aquatic reptiles, including six species of sea turtles, most notably the green turtle and the loggerhead turtle. These iconic Great Barrier Reef animals can often be seen swimming around the reef and are known to use the nearby beaches to nest.
As well as sea turtles, saltwater crocodiles are also known to hang around nearby, but don’t worry! Before you cancel your snorkelling trip, you should know these fearsome animals aren’t huge fans of the coral reef itself.
Not only are the reef’s waters much too clear and far away from the shore, but they also don’t really have a taste for clownfish and sea turtles. Instead, you’ll find these prehistoric creatures minding their business much closer to the shore, as they far prefer the food resources and murky waters of the local mangroves and estuaries.
Birdlife
Numerous species of seabirds and shorebirds can also be spotted gliding around the reef’s waters or resting on the shores nearby.
White-bellied sea eagles and various species of terns and boobies can be spotted circling the waters and hanging out on the surrounding islands year-round.
Meanwhile, the nearby cays and mangroves are a much-needed respite to migratory shorebirds looking to rest during their long journeys.
Invertebrates
In addition to the hard and soft corals that create the reef’s intricate structure, you’ll also find several other invertebrate species hanging out here. Jellyfish are one Great Barrier Reef animal in particular that regularly frequents these waters but don’t worry, your stinger suit will prevent you from receiving any unwanted zaps!
Other invertebrate species on the reef include giant clams, lobsters, crabs, starfish, sea cucumbers, and sponges. Fun fact, these sponges are particularly effective at water filtering and are essential for providing niche habitats for smaller reef creatures. Thanks, Spongebob!
Visit the Great Barrier Reef and its Animals With Backpacker Deals!
If you haven’t booked your trip to the Great Barrier Reef yet, our team can help! Check out our comprehensive selection of diving and snorkelling trips on the Great Barrier Reef and book your next tour online with Backpacker Deals today! Alternatively, you can check out our complete list of things to do in Cairns and allow us to help you plan the ultimate Northern Queensland adventure.
