atoll is a oceanic island formed by corals and characterized by having an oval shape.
Typically, an atoll forms from the crater of a volcanic island when coral reefs build up around it. Over time, the crater begins to submerge and a kind of lagoon forms inside the island.
As a rule, atolls also form a thin layer of soil around the reef structure, enabling the emergence of some types of vegetation, such as tropical plants.
The existence of tropical plants is explained by the fact that atolls form predominantly in seas with this type of climate, especially in the Pacific and Indian oceans.
See also the meaning of Biome.
Atoll of Rocas
It is a Brazilian biological reserve, with an area of approximately 267 km and belonging to the state of Rio Grande do Norte.
The atoll of Rocas is the first biological reserve in the country, created by Decree Law No. 83.549, of June 5, 1979.
As it is a biological reserve, visitation to the atoll of Rocas is not allowed, except with authorization from the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, responsible for managing the island.
This is the only atoll located in the South Atlantic Ocean, representing a great importance for biological production, as it is a shelter for several species of animals.
The atoll of Rocas is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.