ABSTRACT
Atolls are magnificent and inspirational features of the seascape, cherished homelands to millions, and exotic destinations for many more. This chapter lays the foundation for understanding the nature of these structures through the descriptions and images that follow. The diverse topics range from the historical views of their formation to the use of modern technology to view them from space, focusing on the Allen Coral Atlas powered by Planet’s nanosatellites. It describes, categorizes, and illustrates the geomorphology and benthic habitats of atolls, including the platform, outer reef slope, crest, rim, and variations in the lagoon. Finally, atolls are distinguished from other, similar types of reef systems, and a glossary of terminology is also presented.
