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Build an Island
by Rick Groleau

Most people associate the name Charles Darwin with the theory of evolution by natural selection. But in 1842, 17 years before he published his groundbreaking Origin of Species, Darwin gained recognition for another theory, this one in the field of geology.

The theory explained the formation of atolls, low-lying coral islands found mainly in the South Pacific. (Aldabra, the atoll featured in the NOVA program "Garden of Eden," lies in the Indian Ocean.) Over a century and a half later, Darwin's theory still remains the basis for the study of atoll evolution. What is this theory of atoll evolution? Take a look at the following presentation to find out.

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Rick Groleau is managing editor for NOVA Online.

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