What is the main function of the Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier Reef serves multiple significant functions, making it a unique and vital ecosystem. Firstly, it is one of the world's premier tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors annually who come to enjoy activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and sightseeing among its stunning coral formations and diverse marine life. This tourism not only supports local economies but also raises awareness of the importance of marine conservation.

Secondly, the reef acts as a crucial fishing ground for commercial and recreational fishermen. It supports a variety of fish species that are integral to local fisheries and provides a rich source of food for many communities in the region.

Moreover, the Great Barrier Reef is recognized for its extraordinary marine biodiversity. It hosts thousands of species, including corals, fish, mollusks, turtles, and marine mammals, making it one of the most complex ecosystems on the planet. This biodiversity is essential for ecological balance and contributes to the overall health of the ocean.

Given its significance in tourism, fishing, and biodiversity, the correct answer encompasses all of these vital functions, affirming the reef's multifaceted value to both human economies and ecological systems.