Coral overharvesting on Great Barrier Reef investigated by Fisheries Qld

Key points

• Fisheries Queensland has investigated coral overharvesting on the Great Barrier Reef, but declined to share the outcome. The 2025-2026 harvest of antler coral exceeded its quota by 30 per cent.
• Coral harvesting is permitted up to 190 tonnes annually, with much destined for the global aquarium trade.
• Ecologists and conservationists have expressed concerns about sustainability and compliance within the industry.