archipels

Archipels are geographic regions that consist of a cluster or chain of islands. The term archipels is used similarly to archipelago and originates from the Italian archipelago, which in turn derives from the Greek arkhi pelagos, meaning “chief sea” or “principal sea.”

Archipels form through a combination of tectonic activity, volcanic processes, and changes in sea level. Some arise from volcanic island chains built by hotspot activity, while others emerge from uplift of the seafloor or coral reef growth. They can range from a handful of islands to thousands, and their arrangements create complex coastlines, channels, and lagoons.

Ecologically, archipels often host diverse and unique biotas. Isolation among islands promotes endemism and layered habitats such as forests, mangroves, and coral reefs. Archipels face pressures from development, overfishing, invasive species, and climate change, which can affect biodiversity and livelihoods.

Human activity in archipels includes navigation, fishing, tourism, and culture. In international law, archipelagic states may define archipelagic baselines under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to delineate internal waters and territorial seas. Well-known archipels include the Indonesian Archipelago, the Philippine Archipelago, the Japanese Archipelago, the Caribbean Archipelago, and the Aegean Archipelago.