Islands

What is an island?

An island is a piece of land that is completely surrounded by water. It can be found in oceans, seas, rivers, or lakes.

How are islands formed?

There are different ways in which islands are formed:

• Volcanic islands are formed when volcanic eruptions occur underwater, leading to the accumulation of lava that eventually rises above the water's surface.
• Continental islands are formed when rising sea levels isolate a part of a continent, creating an island.
• Coral islands are formed by the accumulation of coral reefs over time.

What kinds of plants and animals live on islands?

Islands can be home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Some plants and animals are unique to specific islands and are not found anywhere else in the world. This is because isolation on an island can lead to the evolution of new species that are adapted to the unique conditions of the island environment.

What are some famous islands?

There are numerous famous islands around the world, including:

• Hawaii - a group of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean
• Madagascar - an island off the coast of East Africa known for its unique wildlife
• Japan - an archipelago of islands in the Pacific Ocean
• Great Barrier Reef - the world's largest coral reef system, off the coast of Australia

Why are islands important?

Islands are important for several reasons:

• They are home to unique ecosystems and species that need to be protected.
• They can be important for scientific research to understand evolution and adaptation.
• They can be popular tourist destinations, contributing to the economy.

Study Guide:

1. What is an island?
2. How are islands formed?
3. What kinds of plants and animals live on islands?
4. Name some famous islands.
5. Why are islands important?

Now that you have learned about islands, you can explore more about specific islands and their unique characteristics!