The atolls of the maldives are formed from structures, separated by lagoons. The atolls are in fact part of a greater structure known as the Laccadives – Chagos Ridge, which stretches over 2000 kilometers. The islands are low lying with the highest point at approximately 8 feet above sea level. “Faru” or ring-shaped reef structures form the atolls and these reefs provide natural defense against wind wave action, on these delicate islands.
