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Mataiva Atoll, Tuamotu Archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean
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Mataiva Atoll, Tuamotu Archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean
August 13, 2010 - Mataiva Atoll, Tuamotu Archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean. The Tuamotu Archipelago is part of French Polynesia, and forms the largest chain of atolls in the world. This photograph features Mataiva Atoll, the westernmost atoll of the Tuamotu chain. An atoll is a ring-shaped island that encloses a central lagoon. This distinctive morphology is usually associated with oceanic islands formed by volcanoes; coral reefs become established around the partially submerged volcanic cone. Over geologic time the central volcano becomes extinct, followed by erosion and subsidence beneath the sea surface, leaving the coral reefs as a ring around (or cap on) the submerged island remnant.
Mataiva Atoll is notable in that its central lagoon includes a network of ridges (white, center) and small basins formed from eroded coral reefs. Mataiva means nine eyes in Tuamotuan, an allusion to nine narrow channels on the south-central portion of the island. The atoll is sparsely populated, with only a single village, Pahua, located on either side of the only pass providing constant connection between the shallow (light blue) water of the lagoon and the deeper (dark blue) adjacent Pacific Ocean
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Media ID 13056429
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Archipelago Atoll Basin Body Of Water Coral Reef Island Lagoon Pacific Ocean Ridge Tuamotu Archipelago Tuamotus View From Space
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This breathtaking print captures the stunning beauty of Mataiva Atoll, located in the Tuamotu Archipelago of French Polynesia. As part of the largest chain of atolls in the world, Mataiva Atoll showcases its unique ring-shaped island formation that encloses a central lagoon. The atoll's distinct morphology is a result of volcanic activity and subsequent erosion and subsidence over millions of years. What sets Mataiva Atoll apart is its central lagoon, which features an intricate network of ridges and small basins formed from eroded coral reefs. These formations resemble nine narrow channels on the south-central portion of the island, giving rise to its name "Mataiva" meaning "nine eyes" in Tuamotuan. With only one village called Pahua situated on either side of the sole pass connecting the shallow waters within the lagoon to the deeper Pacific Ocean nearby, Mataiva Atoll remains sparsely populated. This untouched paradise offers tranquility amidst crystal-clear turquoise waters blending into deep blue ocean depths. Captured by Stocktrek Images, this photograph invites viewers to immerse themselves in nature's masterpiece—a testament to Earth's geological wonders. Whether displayed as wall art or cherished as a keepsake, this print serves as a reminder that there are still hidden treasures waiting to be discovered in our vast oceans.
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