Coral Reefs in Maldives

Exotic and breathtaking, Maldives, is a part of a massive underwater mountain range with stunning coral reefs on its edge. The fascinating coral reefs that border the pure white sands of lovely Maldives ensconce within their folds some of the most beautiful and peaceful lagoons in the world.

There have been several theories that have tried to explain the origin of these coral reefs. Scientists believe that the coral reefs in Maldives were formed after an underwater volcanic eruption of massive proportions.

With around 2000 coral reefs, sandbars and coral outcrops, the Maldives is a delight for scuba divers, snorkeling enthusiasts and people who love marine life. The coral reefs and atolls provide shelter for many species of fish, and other marine creatures. You can see numerous colorful fish swimming round the coral reefs in Maldives, while swimming or snorkeling in the clear blue water of the Indian Ocean around Maldives.

With 26 natural atolls or groups of coral islands, the Maldives, is a part of an underwater mountain range that includes the Lakshadweep Islands and the Chagos Islands. The coral reefs and atolls that make up these islands, have grown on and around the peaks of this underwater mountain range.

Coral is a marine polyp that lives in large colonies. Its hard outer shell, forms the structure of the coral reef. The live polyp within keeps adding to the reef as it keeps building its shell. Thus coral reefs are living structures that can be damaged by pollution, oil spills and adverse weather conditions. The beautiful coral reefs in Maldives, are definitely worth seeing, for their delicate beauty and infinite variety of marine life.