Publisher's Synopsis
The Structure and Distribution of Coral Reefs is a book written by Charles Darwin, first published in 1842. The book is a detailed study of the formation and distribution of coral reefs, based on Darwin's observations during his expedition on the HMS Beagle. In the book, Darwin describes the three types of coral reefs: fringing reefs, barrier reefs, and atolls. He also discusses the different stages of reef formation and the factors that influence their growth and distribution. Darwin's observations challenged the prevailing theory of coral reef formation at the time, which suggested that reefs were formed by the growth of inorganic matter. Instead, Darwin proposed that coral reefs were formed by the growth and accumulation of organic matter, such as coral polyps.The book is considered a landmark in the field of coral reef research and is still widely cited today. It is also notable for its clear and accessible writing style, which makes it accessible to both scientists and general readers.Where the channel is narrow, the agency, which on unprotected coasts is most productive of sediment, namely the force of the breakers, is here entirely excluded, and the reef being breached in the front of the main valleys, much of the finer mud from the rivers must be transported into the open sea. As a current is formed by the water thrown over the edge of atoll-formed reefs, which carries sediment with it through the deep-water breaches.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
