Kalpeni Island

About Kalpeni Island:

• It is a village located within the Lakshadweep archipelago in the Arabian Sea, covering an area of 2.79 square kilometers. 
• Situated at a distance of 287 kilometers (155 nautical miles) from Kochi, Kerala, this island lies southeast of Kavaratti Island, midway between Androth and Minicoy.
• Kalpeni, along with two small islets of Tilakkam and Pittiand the uninhabited island of Cheriyam in the north, form a single atoll. 
• Kalpeni is renowned for its breathtaking coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and powdery white beaches.
• Its most captivating feature is an expansive lagoon that stretches approximately 2.8 kilometers at its widest point, with the island aligned in a north-south direction.
• The island is surrounded by an extensive coral reef system, teeming with diverse marine life. This makes Kalpeni a prime spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
• The climate of Kalpeni is similar to the climatic conditions of Kerala.
• Apart from its natural beauty, Kalpeni also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with inhabitants primarily belonging to the indigenous Maliku community.

Q1: What are Corals?

Corals are marine invertebrates that belong to the phylum Cnidaria and the class Anthozoa. They are colonial organisms composed of thousands of tiny, individual animals called polyps, which secrete calcium carbonate to form hard, protective skeletons. These skeletons accumulate over time to create coral reefs, which are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth.

Source:TOI