Snails aren't normally considered a predator, but researchers are hoping a world-first study will prove the Triton sea snail can eradicate one of the biggest threats to Queensland's Great Barrier Reef.

According to News Corp, the Federal Government is funding the study which could one day see the giant snails released on the Reef.

The snails - which can grow to 50cm - prey on the destructive crown-of-thorn starfish.

The starfish have become a leading cause of coral loss on the reef.

News Corp reports the government will spend $568,000 on initial research and trials over the next two years.

There have already been some promising results, with more than 100,000 swimming snail larvae hatched.

Eventually, the snails will be released on the reef in a highly controlled environment in order to avoid the snails themselves becoming a pest.

The crown-of-thorns starfish is a threat to the Great Barrier Reef. (AAP)

A crown-of-thorns starfish in dead coral. (AAP)