The Maldives sit on top of an ancient underwater mountain range called the Chagos-Laccadive Ridge. Millions of years ago, volcanoes rose up from the ocean floor, then slowly sank as the Earth’s crust moved.
Coral reefs grew on top of these sinking volcanoes, layer by layer, until only the reefs remained above water.
Today, the islands are made of broken coral, sand, and shells—nothing solid like rock. They’re very flat, just a couple of meters above sea level, and they can change shape over time with waves and storms.
There are no rivers, lakes, or mountains—just tiny islands surrounded by shallow water
The image shows the Baa Atoll in the Maldives, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich marine biodiversity. Here are some key features:
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Location:
Situated in the western part of the Maldives, north of the Kaashidhoo Kandhoo channel.
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Geography:
It comprises 75 islands, with 13 inhabited and the rest uninhabited.
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Biodiversity:
It’s home to one of the largest coral reef systems in the Indian Ocean, supporting diverse species like manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles.
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Hanifaru Bay:A small bay famous for attracting hundreds of manta rays and whale sharks during plankton blooms.