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The Maldives-Chagos-Lakshadweep Atolls are the most extensive coral reef system in the Indian Ocean and the largest atoll system in the world. Volcanic eruptions created islands out of the sea, but for thousands of years some have been slowly sinking back down. The reefs and lagoons that remain form complexes known as atolls.
The warm, clear waters of the ecoregion support a wide range of reefs and habitats. The Chagos Archipelago's raised and submerged reefs are largely undisturbed. They include the world's largest atoll, the Great Chagos Bank, and many areas of endemic coral. A complex reef system of 1,300 low coral islands and sandbanks makes up the Maldives. And the tiny Lakshadweep Islands are built on top of coral reefs and covered in coral sand.
The Maldives and Chagos islands are important nesting sites for green turtles, which share the water with their hawksbill, olive ridley, and loggerhead cousins. The cries of lesser frigates and white and roseate terns fill the air as they dive for fish and nest on the shore. Common dolphins and finless porpoises splash about, while Cuvier's and Blainsville's beaked whales circle the reefs during feeding. The endemic and omniverous Maldives anemonefish can be found at the edge of the reef.
The rapid growth of tourism and mechanized fishing are serious threats. Coral mining, the dropping of boat anchors, the construction of breakwaters and jetties, and siltation harm the reefs. Pollution, shipping, and the overpumping of water for agriculture are also problems.
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