Corals’ Last Stand

Nestled on the edge of the continental shelf, 300 kilometers from the Australian mainland, Scott Reef rises as an ancient coral atoll. Isolated for millions of years from other reef systems and terrestrial influences, it has nurtured its own subpopulations of distinctive species. Formed more than 15 million years ago, Scott Reef is home to more than 1,200 species, including endangered sea snakes, green turtles, and spectacular corals. Endangered pygmy whales and other rare cetaceans pause at Scott Reef during their annual migrations to feed on the abundant krill. It is one of only a few spots along the west coast of Australia where krill can be found in sufficient quantities to replenish the needs of these large creatures. But Scott Reef is under threat.