Which one of the following sites does not have coral reef formation?

Which one of the following sites does not have coral reef formation?

Gulf of Cambay/Khambhat
Gulf of Mannar
Lakshadweep
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2018
The correct answer is A) Gulf of Cambay/Khambhat.
Coral reefs require specific environmental conditions, including warm, clear, shallow saline water with adequate sunlight penetration.
– Gulf of Mannar, Lakshadweep, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands are well-known regions in India with significant coral reef formations.
– The Gulf of Mannar is part of a Marine National Park known for its rich marine biodiversity including coral reefs.
– Lakshadweep consists of atolls, which are ring-shaped coral reefs surrounding a lagoon.
– The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are surrounded by fringing and barrier reefs.
– The Gulf of Cambay (Khambhat) is an estuary formed by the confluence of major rivers like the Narmada, Tapti, Mahi, and Sabarmati. The large influx of fresh water and high sediment load from these rivers lead to turbid, brackish conditions which are generally unfavorable for the growth and survival of most coral species.
While some limited coral growth might occur in marginal conditions, extensive reef development is not found in the Gulf of Cambay due to the high freshwater input and turbidity. The other mentioned locations represent India’s four major coral reef areas.