There's a hidden source of excess nutrients suffocating the Great Barrier Reef. We found it

Coral impacted by excess nutrients in the Great Barrier Reef. Ashly McMahon, CC BY-ND

The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most important environmental and economic assets. It is estimated to contribute A$56 billion per year and supports about 64,000 full-time jobs, according to the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. However, the reef is under increasing pressure.

While much public attention is focused on the impacts of climate change on the Great Barrier Reef and the debate around its endangered status, water quality is also crucial to the reef’s health and survival.