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The Great Barrier Reef, which is found close to the eastern Australian
coastline, is home to a wide variety of animals. All coral species
are animal species, even though the adult forms do not move. Coral
filters plankton from the surrounding water. Each tide brings with
it a fresh supply of plankton. Other animals, such as the giant
clam, also make their homes in a coral reef. The parrot fish feeds
on coral. Many other species of fish visit coral reefs in order to
feed and because they find coral a good hiding place when escaping
from predators.
A coral reef is a good example of our planet's biodiversity. There are
many species of animals living in coral reefs which have not been
classified. Unfortunately, a coral reef is very susceptible to
pollution. Many coral reefs are dying because of pollution. |