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Travelers, scientists, and nature lovers have all been drawn to the mysterious allure of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which are tucked away in the Bay of Bengal's embrace, adding them to the list of coral islands on the planet.
Photo by Catrin Johnson on Unsplash
What are coral islands?
Coral islands, also known as atolls, are circular or horseshoe-shaped structures that can be found in warm tropical seas. They begin as volcanic islands, and when they settle or disintegrate, coral reefs build a protective barrier reef around them. When the original island vanishes, only the circular coral reef survives, becoming an atoll with a centre lagoon. These formations are well-known for their biodiversity and are attractive destinations for activities such as diving and tourism. The Maldives and the Great Barrier Reef are two examples.
Andaman and Nicobar as coral islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands evoke pictures of gorgeous white sand beaches, waterways teaming with colorful marine life, and lush tropical forests at the mere mention of them. These islands are known for being coral islands and are distinguished by their breathtaking natural beauty. In essence, coral islands are land masses that have been created by or have had a significant impact from the accumulation and expansion of coral reefs.
Coral reefs in the vicinity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are fascinating ecosystems that are essential to preserving marine biodiversity and guarding against erosion of coastal areas. Coral polyps, which are minuscule marine animals that form colonies, gradually build calcium carbonate skeletons that act as the foundation for coral reefs. These coral polyp colonies develop and link throughout time, building complex structures that provide as habitat and shelter for a wide variety of marine creatures.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands' coral reefs are noteworthy not just for their breathtaking beauty, but also for the variety of species they are home to. Corals can flourish in the warm, clear seas surrounding these islands, creating a vibrant underwater tapestry of colors and patterns. The variety is astounding, ranging from hard corals that construct the strong foundation of the reefs to delicate soft corals that swing with the currents.
The coral reefs on the islands are not only beautiful to look at, but they are also an essential part of the marine environment. Numerous fish species use them as nurseries, and they shelter and preserve young marine life. The food chain is subsequently maintained, which benefits larger predatory species and even human communities who depend on the waters for food.
These sensitive ecosystems, despite being beautiful and important, are under threat from a variety of human activities. Coral reefs all across the world, including those near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, face serious threats to their health and survival from pollution, overfishing, and ocean acidification brought on by climate change. To ensure the preservation of these vulnerable ecosystems for future generations, efforts are being made to increase awareness of the significance of protecting them and putting sustainable practices in place.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are coral islands, demonstrating the spectacular beauty and critical role that coral reefs play in the environment. A magnificent world exists beneath the waves thanks to the colorful corals that characterize the underwater sceneries. It is our duty as stewards of the environment to protect these delicate ecosystems and make sure that the alluring coral reefs of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands survive so that future generations can admire and value them.