The Great Barrier Reef is home to a stunning array of animals, from microscopic plankton to whales weighing more than 100 tonnes. More than just fish and coral, the Great Barrier Reef supports:

• 1625 species of fish, including 1400 coral reef species
• More than 3000 species of molluscs (shells)
• 630 species of echinoderm (starfish, sea urchins)
• 14 breeding species of sea snakes
• 215 species of birds including 22 species of seabirds and 32 species of shorebirds
• Six of the world's seven species of marine turtle
• 30 species of whales and dolphins
• One of the world's most important dugong populations
• 133 species of sharks and rays
• ....and much more

Species of conservation concern

The Great Barrier Reef is a refuge for many species of conservation concern. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority works to protect marine animal species that are threatened, iconic or at risk.

Protected species are those that are protected by law and need special management.