Where are barrier reefs predominantly found?

Barrier reefs are predominantly found near Australia, most famously represented by the Great Barrier Reef, which is the largest coral reef system in the world. These reefs form parallel to the shoreline, separated from it by a deeper lagoon. The unique geographic and climatic conditions found in this region, particularly the warm waters of the Coral Sea and the abundance of sunlight needed for coral growth, create an ideal environment for the development of barrier reefs.

While barrier reefs can occur in other regions as well, Australia is specifically well-known for its extensive barrier reef systems. The other options may refer to different types of coastal features or ecosystems, but they do not have the same prominence or recognition for barrier reefs as the area near Australia does.