Which Is the Largest Coral Reef Region in India?
Which is the largest coral reef region in India? Know the answer, area, types of coral reefs, major reef regions and why Andaman and Nicobar Islands are important for India’s marine biodiversity.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have the largest coral reef area in India. The coral reefs in the islands cover approximately 1,021 sq km. The islands are located in the Bay of Bengal. Keep reading to know in detail.
How Large Is the Coral Reef Area in Andaman and Nicobar?
The estimated coral reef area of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is about 1,021.46 sq km. The reef system extends around several islands in the archipelago. It has different varieties of coral reefs.
Which Are the Major Coral Reef Regions in India?
India has four major coral reef regions Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep Islands, Gulf of Kachchh, Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay.
Which Coral Reef Region Is Second Largest in India?
Lakshadweep has the second largest coral reef area among the four major regions. Its coral reef area is estimated at around 934 sq km. Lakshadweep is particularly known for its atoll reefs.
Coral Reef Areas in India
| Coral Reef Region | Approximate Reef Area |
| Andaman and Nicobar Islands | 1,021 sq km |
| Lakshadweep | 934 sq km |
| Gulf of Kachchh | 352 sq km |
| Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay | 76 sq km |
What Type of Coral Reefs Are Found in Andaman and Nicobar?
Fringing reefs are common around the islands. A barrier reef also occurs along the western coast of the Andaman Islands. The barrier reef is about 320 km long according to scientific reviews.
Why Are Andaman and Nicobar Coral Reefs Important?
The region has exceptionally high coral biodiversity. Government and scientific sources record hundreds of coral species from the islands.
How Many Coral Species Are Found in Andaman and Nicobar?
Andaman and Nicobar Islands have the highest recorded coral species diversity among India’s major reef regions. A recent Zoological Survey of India source records 523 species from the islands. The species belong to 95 genera and 23 families.
What Are the Four Main Types of Coral Reef Regions in India?
India’s major coral reef regions represent different reef formations:
| Region / Location | Primary Coral Reef Type(s) |
| Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Mainly fringing reefs, along with barrier reef formations. |
| Lakshadweep | Mainly atoll reefs. |
| Gulf of Kachchh | Mainly fringing and platform-type reef formations. |
| Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay | Mainly fringing reefs. |
India’s Largest Coral Reef Region
| Attribute | Details |
| Largest Coral Reef Region | Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
| Location | Bay of Bengal |
| Approximate Reef Area | 1,021 sq km |
| Major Reef Type | Fringing reef |
| Other Reef Type | Barrier reef |
| Coral Diversity | Highest among India’s major reef regions |
| Major Barrier Reef | Western coast of the Andaman Islands |
| Other Major Reef Regions | Lakshadweep, Gulf of Kachchh, Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay |
Jasreet Kaur is a journalist with over 3 years of experience in digital media and news content creation. She specializes in covering Trending News, including major National and International developments, with a focus on delivering accurate, engaging, and reader-friendly stories. Prior to this, she worked with Zee News as a Content Writer, where she gained extensive experience in news reporting and content strategy. Driven by curiosity, credibility, and a passion for impactful journalism, Jasreet aims to contribute to informed public discourse while supporting positive growth in organizations, society, and the world.
