Maldives atolls, along with some other islands and a few reefs, together form the island nation of Maldives. The atolls in their positioning result in the formation of a prominent pattern.
The natural Maldives atolls form a part of the nation. The atolls are separated from one another by wide water channels of great depth.
It is widely held that atolls are deserted circular reefs with sandy beaches, lined with palm trees .But geographical studies have proved that atolls are complex natural features. It takes thousands of years to form such coral reefs .The adjoining areas of the atolls are the natural habitats of numerous species of marine life. There are speculations regarding their formation, contours, growth and expansion. Scientists differ in their opinions in this regard. An exact answer to this question is considered to solve a crucial problem. The Maldivian people may well secure themselves from the ever rising sea levels as a consequence of global warming.
The atolls in Maldives often pose problems for navigators. They find it increasingly difficult to steer their ships through the atolls, which are closely located. Some of these atolls are ideal for diving expeditions. The cruise operators in Maldives include diving and fishing in their packages to attract tourists. Scuba divers cannot afford to miss these atolls. The atolls have a rich concentration of marine life.
There are several Maldivian atolls like the Miladhummadulhu group, Faadhippolhu, Thiladhunmati Group, Male Atoll group, Maalhosmadulhu group, Mulaku atoll, Ari group, Felidhu Atoll group, Huvadhu atoll, Fua mulaku Island, Addu Atoll, Huvadu Kandu ,Haddhunmati and others.
Ellaidhoo