Summary: The Great Barrier Reef is the worlds largest coral reef. It consists of more than 2,800 reefs. It is located off the northeastern coast of Australia. The great barrier reef is home to many different corals, plants, and animals. Most of the reef is in the shallow warm parts of the tropical waters. Due to human contamination, the great barrier reef (like many other parts of our world) is shrinking in size and beauty due to human activity.