Colorful Coral Spawn Demonstrates New Life for This Reef

The Great Barrier Reef’s annual coral spawn happened off the coast of Cairns, Queensland, in a colorful and natural demonstration proving that the Australian ocean landmark managed to regenerate itself regardless of ecological perils. 

“Nothing makes people happier than new life, and coral spawning is the world’s biggest proof of that,” says Australian marine biologist Gareth Phillips. “It’s a strong demonstration that its ecological functions are intact and working after being in a recovery phase for more than 18 months.”

A team of marine biologists, divers, students, and photographers affiliated with the research center Reef Teach filmed the coral as part of the annual monitoring of the Great Barrier Reef’s general health. The colorful demonstration – where coral releases large amounts of sperm and eggs into the ocean along the 2,300 kilometer-long barrier – usually occurs between October and November. To top this news off, this year, the Great Barrier Reef – protected by UNESCO – isn’t ranked “in danger” by the World Heritage Committee.