The Maldives is entirely made up of atolls that are live coral reefs and associated coral structures appear to have just the right conditions to support the growth of large and almost intact reefs and to maintain them in excellent condition. The atolls with ring shaped reefs each having its own sandy lagoon make up one of the world’s most complex multi level reef systems hosting everything from micro organisms to large life forms. Sea grass beds behind the coral reefs offer refuge to molluscs, fish and crustaceans that use them as breeding grounds. The dominant species however are the corals of which there are nearly 200 varieties and fish that number over a thousand species. Other inhabitants that play a significant role in the marine biodiversity of the Maldives include sea turtles, whales and dolphins, molluscs, echinoderms and many types of crustaceans. The corals are the foundation of a rich ecology that is part of a complex system of food and competition for resources and habitats.
Stony corals that grow in large colonies make up the more than 3000 reefs and atolls in the Maldives. They are found in shallow water as well as at incredible depths and grow out into various shapes resembling stag horn, tables, mushrooms, brain and star shapes. Rose, blue, black and thorny corals are also part of the same family. Soft corals such as fan and whip are found on the ocean floor. As the sunsets the coral polyps begin to feed providing an exciting vision for night divers.
Without the coral reefs Maldives would not have its sandy white beaches, calm lagoons and myriad marine life. As most resorts have vibrant house reefs anyone can experience the beauty of the coral reefs. The clarity of the water enables divers and snorkelers to fully appreciate the diversity and beauty of the reefs. As the Maldives offers a multitude of excellent dive sites other than the house reefs, divers of all experience levels can dive on a different reef everyday to enjoy varying underwater scenarios.
Although there have been reports of coral regeneration and efforts are being made to safeguard and grow coral reefs, they are nevertheless subject to environmental stresses such as coral bleaching due to high ocean temperatures, disease, human activity and storm damage.
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas offers almost everything that the modern holiday makers desire to have on their perfect tropical beach Holiday. Facilities at one of popular Maldives resorts include a palm fringed private beach, spacious villas and residences with a range of modern in room conveniences to please the whole family, water and land based leisure activities, six dining venues with eclectic menus in exotic settings with one underwater and little luxurious touches that make this a very special place. Additionally experience Asian influenced pampering spa treatments at one of excellent Maldives Spa resorts in over water treatment suites that are designed to revive and rejuvenate.
Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered. Google+
