What Is a Ring-Shaped Coral Island Called?
Last Updated Apr 8, 2020 8:22:09 AM ET

A ring-shaped coral island is called an atoll. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, an atoll is made up of sections of coral reef that form a closed shape around a central lagoon.
According to Britannica.com, the ribbons of reef that make up an atoll need not always be ring-shaped or circular, but they always form a closed shape around a lagoon of around 160 feet in depth. The coral reef is mostly underwater, with small islands or longer masses of land on the rim of the reef. Some atolls are inhabited. Inhabited atolls can be found in Polynesia, Micronesia and the Maldives.
More From Reference

How Do You Apply for Social Security Benefits?

How Did the VW Beetle Become an Emblem of the '60s?

We Explain the Complicated History of Myanmar and Aung San Suu Kyi

Financing the Future: Setting Up Savings Plans for Grandchildren

Responsible Retirement: What's the Maximum Amount You Can Contribute to a 401(k)?

10 Small Business Grants for Women Entrepreneurs