 In this video we will explain what is happening to the Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of northern Australia and is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. 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. Stretching over 3,000 kilometers and comprising of 3,000 individual reef systems, it comes as no surprise to learn that it is the only living thing on Earth visible from space. Unfortunately, due to the effects of global warming the reef is struggling to keep itself alive. In 2016 and 2017, large parts of the reef experienced severe cyclone damage and coral bleaching. 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. What is coral bleaching you ask? Coral bleaching is when the water temperature rises causing corals to expel the algae that live on them, turning them white. Most importantly, this process rips corals of their food source and they begin to starve. The relationship between corals and algae is one that is very unique in the animal slash plant world. Small photosynthesizing algae turns sunlight into food for the corals in return for a place to live on them. They also give corals their beautiful color. Scientists around the world are studying these unique ecosystems and trying to figure out how the damage caused by bleaching and other climate change events can be reversed. Others question whether the reef can adapt to the pressures and still continue to thrive. But many fear the problems facing this beautiful, diverse, underwater ecosystem will continue to get worse unless serious action is taken against the amount of pollution and greenhouse gases we are producing. Humans need to start rethinking their actions before we lose a great wonder of the world.