Atoll
Atolls are low islands characterized by a ring of coral reefs surrounding a central lagoon, often formed over sunken volcanic islands. These formations are primarily found in tropical ocean regions and serve as crucial habitats for various marine species. The lagoon within an atoll can be composed of seawater that may vary in salinity and depth.
The significance of atolls extends beyond their ecological importance; they also offer protection to coastal areas from ocean waves, thus minimizing erosion. As climate change and rising sea levels threaten these fragile structures, understanding their formation and functions becomes critical. Careful conservation efforts are needed to maintain the ecological balance and protect the biodiversity associated with atolls.