The atoll reefs
An atoll reef is a type of coral reef that is formed around the rim of a sunken volcanic island. Atoll reefs are shaped like a ring and are often found in the middle of the ocean.
Atoll reefs are formed when coral grows on top of a submerged volcanic island. Over time, the coral builds up, creating a ring-shaped reef that surrounds the sunken island. The lagoon that is formed within the reef is usually shallow and protected, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Atoll reefs support a diverse community of plants and animals, including coral, fish, invertebrates, and other marine life. They also provide a range of ecological and economic benefits, such as protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting local economies through tourism and fishing, and playing a role in global climate regulation. However, like all coral reefs, atoll reefs are facing many challenges, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing, which threaten their survival and the ecosystems they support.
Atoll reefs are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including the Maldives in the Indian Ocean, the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean, and the Bahamas in the Caribbean Sea.