What are the 10 largest islands in the world? Understanding the world’s largest islands offers insight into diverse ecosystems and cultures. This list includes islands from various continents, each with unique features and histories. From Greenland’s icy expanse to Australia’s tropical beaches, these islands vary greatly in climate, size, and biodiversity.
1. Greenland: The Largest Island
Greenland is the world’s largest island, with an area of about 2,166,086 square kilometers. Although it is politically part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it is geographically part of North America. Greenland is known for its vast ice sheets, which cover about 80% of its surface, and its unique Arctic wildlife.
2. New Guinea: A Biodiversity Hotspot
New Guinea, with an area of approximately 785,753 square kilometers, is the second-largest island. Located in the southwest Pacific, it is divided between two countries: Papua New Guinea to the east and Indonesia to the west. The island is renowned for its rich biodiversity, home to thousands of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic.
3. Borneo: The Third-Largest Island
Borneo covers an area of about 748,168 square kilometers. It is politically divided among three countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Borneo is famous for its rainforests, which are among the oldest in the world, and its diverse wildlife, including orangutans and pygmy elephants.
4. Madagascar: Unique Flora and Fauna
Madagascar, the fourth-largest island, has an area of 587,041 square kilometers. Located off the southeast coast of Africa, Madagascar is known for its unique species, such as lemurs and baobab trees. Over 90% of its wildlife is found nowhere else on Earth.
5. Baffin Island: The Largest in Canada
Baffin Island, part of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, covers approximately 507,451 square kilometers. Known for its rugged landscapes and cold climate, it is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears and caribou.
6. Sumatra: A Land of Volcanoes
Sumatra is the sixth-largest island, with an area of 473,481 square kilometers. Located in Indonesia, it is characterized by its volcanic mountains and diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests to peat swamps. Sumatra is also home to critically endangered species like the Sumatran tiger and rhinoceros.
7. Honshu: Japan’s Main Island
Honshu, Japan’s largest island, has an area of 225,800 square kilometers. It is the seventh-largest island globally and hosts many of Japan’s major cities, including Tokyo and Kyoto. Honshu is known for its cultural heritage, technological advancements, and scenic landscapes, from mountains to coastal areas.
8. Victoria Island: Arctic Wilderness
Victoria Island, located in Canada’s Arctic region, covers an area of 217,291 square kilometers. It is known for its remote and harsh environment, with a landscape dominated by tundra and ice. The island supports a small population of Inuit communities.
9. Great Britain: A Historical Hub
Great Britain, with an area of 209,331 square kilometers, is the ninth-largest island in the world. It comprises England, Scotland, and Wales, and is known for its rich history, cultural influence, and diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to bustling cities.
10. Ellesmere Island: The Northern Frontier
Ellesmere Island, part of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, covers about 196,236 square kilometers. It is characterized by its extreme Arctic conditions and stunning natural features, such as fjords and glaciers. The island is sparsely populated, primarily by Inuit communities.
Comparison Table of the Largest Islands
| Island | Area (sq km) | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenland | 2,166,086 | North America | Ice sheets, Arctic wildlife |
| New Guinea | 785,753 | Pacific Ocean | Biodiversity, rainforests |
| Borneo | 748,168 | Southeast Asia | Rainforests, diverse wildlife |
| Madagascar | 587,041 | Indian Ocean | Unique species, lemurs, baobabs |
| Baffin Island | 507,451 | Canada | Arctic wildlife, rugged landscapes |
| Sumatra | 473,481 | Indonesia | Volcanoes, endangered species |
| Honshu | 225,800 | Japan | Cultural heritage, major cities |
| Victoria Island | 217,291 | Canada | Tundra, remote environment |
| Great Britain | 209,331 | Europe | History, cultural influence |
| Ellesmere Island | 196,236 | Canada | Fjords, glaciers |
People Also Ask
What is the largest island in the world that is not a continent?
Greenland is the largest island in the world that is not a continent. It covers an area of about 2,166,086 square kilometers and is known for its massive ice sheets and Arctic wildlife.
Why is Australia not considered the largest island?
Australia is classified as a continent rather than an island due to its large size and distinct geological structure. It covers an area of approximately 7.7 million square kilometers, making it significantly larger than any island.
How does the climate vary among the largest islands?
The climate among the largest islands varies widely. Greenland has an Arctic climate with ice sheets, while Madagascar has a tropical climate with diverse ecosystems. Borneo and Sumatra have tropical rainforests, whereas Great Britain experiences a temperate maritime climate.
What are some unique species found on these islands?
Many of the largest islands host unique species. Madagascar is home to lemurs and baobab trees, while Borneo has orangutans and pygmy elephants. Sumatra features the critically endangered Sumatran tiger and rhinoceros.
How do these islands impact global biodiversity?
These islands significantly impact global biodiversity by hosting unique ecosystems and species. For example, New Guinea and Madagascar are biodiversity hotspots, with many endemic species that contribute to global ecological diversity.
In summary, the world’s largest islands offer a fascinating glimpse into diverse environments and cultures. From Greenland’s icy landscapes to Madagascar’s unique wildlife, each island contributes uniquely to the planet’s biodiversity. For more on related topics, explore articles on the impact of climate change on island ecosystems or the cultural significance of islands worldwide.
