Great Australian Bight Marine Park (2017) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Great Australian Bight Marine ParkAustralia |
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 Great Australian Bight Marine Park
Location in Australia
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| Nearest town or city | Ceduna, South Australia |
| Established | 8 December 2012 |
| Area | 45,926 km2 (17,732.1 sq mi) |
| Managing authorities | Director of National Parks |
| Website | Great Australian Bight Marine Park |
The Great Australian Bight Marine Park is a very special area in the ocean. It is located south of South Australia in the Great Australian Bight. This park helps protect important marine life and their homes.
It was first created in November 2012. Back then, it was called the Great Australian Bight Commonwealth Marine Reserve. It got its current name on October 11, 2017.
Contents
What is the Great Australian Bight Marine Park?
The Great Australian Bight Marine Park is a large protected area in the ocean. It covers about 45,926 square kilometers. This is a huge space, bigger than many countries!
Different Zones of the Park
This marine park is divided into three main areas, or "zones." Each zone has different rules to help protect the ocean.
Marine National Park Zone
This zone is like a national park on land, but underwater. It covers about 7,728 square kilometers. In this area, the main goal is to protect nature. Activities like fishing are usually not allowed here.
Multiple Use Zone
This zone is much larger, about 22,682 square kilometers. It allows for some activities, but they must be done in a way that protects the environment. This means people can use the ocean for certain things, but they must be careful not to harm the animals or their habitats.
Special Purpose Zone
This zone is made up of three separate parts of the ocean. Together, they cover about 15,516 square kilometers. Like the Multiple Use Zone, it allows for some activities. These activities are carefully managed to make sure the ocean stays healthy.
Why is the Park Important?
The Great Australian Bight Marine Park is very important for many reasons. It protects special places where animals live, eat, and have their babies.
Protecting Marine Life
The main purpose of the park is to protect the homes of several amazing ocean animals.
Southern Right Whales
This park is a crucial place for Southern right whales. These huge whales come here to have their calves. Protecting this area helps ensure baby whales can grow up safely.
Other Important Animals
Many other animals also rely on this park. It is a feeding ground for:
- Australian sea lions: These playful animals need plenty of fish to eat.
- Sperm whales: These are the largest toothed whales, and they hunt for food here.
- Short-tailed shearwaters: These birds fly long distances and use the park's waters to find food.
- Great white sharks: These powerful predators also hunt in these waters.
Protecting the park helps all these animals find the food and safe spaces they need to survive.
Part of a Bigger Network
The Great Australian Bight Marine Park is not alone. It is part of a larger group of Australian marine parks. This group is called the South-west Marine Parks Network.
Being part of a network means that many protected areas work together. This helps protect a wider range of ocean habitats and animals across a larger area. The park is also near the Western Eyre Marine Park, which is another protected ocean area.
