Section 4
You'll hear a lecture about Great Barrier Reef. First you have some time to look at the questions 31-33.
Now listen carefully and answer questions 31-33.
Despite of its name, the Great Barrier Reef isn't just one large coral reef.
Rather, it's a system of coral reef that stretches along the east coast of Australia, covering an area of around 300,000 square kilometers.
The Great Barrier Reef is composed of approximately 3000 individual reefs which range in size from one hectare to more than 10,000 hectares each.
In addition, around 600 islands are scattered throughout the area, particularly at the northern and southern ends.
The reefs themselves are composed of over 400 different kinds of coral, the largest variety of coral found anywhere in the world.
Now, listen carefully and answer questions 34-40.
Thousands of species of sea animals live in and around the reefs.
All together, approximately 1500 species of fish inhabit the reef area, including a number of different kinds of sharks.
One of the more interesting mollusks to be found in the reefs is the giant clam.
These huge shelf fish can live for more than a hundred years and can weigh as much as 200 kilos.
Sea mammals are bound in the area, which serves as a breeding ground for certain types of whales, many of which are endangered.
Over two hundred species of sea and shore birds fees, roost on nest among the reefs and islands.
Many types of reptiles can also be found living around and near the reefs.
Salt water crocodiles, for example, inhabit the marshes along coast or the area.
Amphibians include at least 7 species of fogs inhabit in the islands and reefs.
Unfortunately, this wondrous area of the world is threatened by climate change.
Rising sea temperatures have led to an effect called "coral bleaching", that is large numbers of corals dying off, especially in the shallower area of the reef.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is attempting to find effective ways to deal with this issue that threatens the reef.
One proposed solution involves shading the reef in certain areas to help keep the surrounding water temperatures down.
That is the end of section 4. You now have half a minute to check your answers.