Take a moment to guess which country has the most islands. While you might think it’s a place like the Philippines or Indonesia, with 239,057 in its territorial borders, it’s actually Norway.
Of course, the definition of an island can vary. Scandanavian islands are rocky crags, while islands in the Maldives are silky sand bars. But what are the different types of islands?
Today we’re going to answer that question and many more. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have the geographic knowledge you need to become an island expert.
Read on to learn more.
Table Of Contents
Tidal Islands
As their name implies, tidal islands are those whose existence depends on the tides. At low tide, more of the landmass is visible. However, at high tide, most (or even all) of the island is submerged.
Tidal islands are the most common type of island in the world. Examples include Jindo and Mondo in South Korea and Cramond Island in Scotland.
Oceanic Islands
Oceanic islands are those that rise from the floor of the ocean to the surface. This happens because of volcanic activity, earning them the additional name “volcanic islands.”
The Galapagos Islands are one of the most famous chains of oceanic islands. They’re also one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Check out this site to learn more about the rainforest and Galapagos Islands.
Barrier Islands
Barrier islands are found in island chains. These are landforms off the coast of larger islands that are made from waves and tides.
Barrier islands are important since they often protect coastlines. They absorb energy from waves and storms, sheltering the islands behind them.
Coral Islands
You can find coral islands in the subtropical and tropical regions of the world. The initial landmass surfaces on account of volcanic activity, but coral then begins to fringe around it, forming an atoll.
Some of the most famous (and beautiful) coral islands are in places like the Maldives and Seychelles. Unfortunately, they’re often subject to the impact of climate change.
Continental Islands
Continental islands are those that were connected to continental landmasses in the past. Greenland and Madagascar are two famous examples.
Scientists believe that in the past, all continents formed a part of a single landmass called Pangea. Because of that, every continent today is a continental island.
Artificial Islands
Artificial islands are those made by people. Most of the time, they serve as tourist attractions or seek to add aesthetic value to a region.
Some of the most famous artificial islands are off the coast of Dubai, where the tourist board has invested billions of dollars into constructing a whole archipelago of artificial islands.
Understand the Different Types of Islands
Whether you’re studying for a geography test or just planning your next vacation, understanding the different types of islands across the Earth is something that everyone should do.
Use this guide to help you do just that.
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