Chapter 20 Summary and Analysis

At Keeling Island, a coral atoll, Darwin sees very little flora diversity growing on the coral. Only coconut trees flourish, which is what feeds the inhabitants' pigs and a large kind of crab. Of greater interest is the coral itself. Some species give mild stings when touched. The main atoll is surrounded by linear coral islands, also with coconut trees. The Beagle sails through an opening in the coral ring of the main atoll and anchors in the shallow and calm waters of the lagoon. The image from within the atoll is one of deep blue sky, the surrounding trees, the ring of coral beach and the calm, deeply green water of the lagoon, while beyond the island the Pacific rolls and pitches.

On another island some miles away, Darwin learns fresh water wells exist, and in some unknown manner, the...