Estuarine and marine ecosystems assessment summary

Queensland's estuarine aquatic ecosystems vary significantly in condition. Some are in good to very good condition while others do not meet standards for water quality.

At a reef-wide scale, most ecological processes are considered to be in good condition; however the inshore southern two-thirds of the region are in decline.

Queensland’s marine environments vary significantly in condition. Some are in good to very good condition while others do not meet standards for water quality.

At a reef-wide scale, climate related variables are already having an effect, and are predicted to continue to have far-reaching consequences for the reef ecosystem.

Changes to coastal habitat and reductions in connectivity are having an increasing effect on the region's ecosystem.

At a reef-wide scale, direct use of the region is a significant economic contributor and its impact on the region’s ecosystem is projected to increase with population growth.

Declining marine water quality is one of the most significant threats to the reef however agricultural practices are improving, resulting in reductions in land-based run-off entering the region.

Evidence suggests increased nutrient loads contribute to more frequent outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish—a major predator of coral—resulting in coral cover decline.