What type of reef is attached to the shore and is widest in front of the headlands?

A fringing reef is characterized by its close proximity to the shore, where it forms along the coastline, making it the most common type of reef found in tropical regions. This type of reef develops directly from the shoreline and is typically widest at the points where it projects out from headlands, as these areas receive more wave action and sediment deposition, allowing for greater coral growth.

The structure of a fringing reef consists of a reef flat that slopes down to a deeper water zone, and it often exhibits a biological diversity that includes various coral species, fish, and other marine organisms. The shallow waters in front of the reef provide an environment conducive to the growth of coral, making it an essential habitat for many marine species.

In contrast, barrier reefs are located farther from shore and are separated from the coastline by deeper water, while atoll reefs are circular or oval in shape and usually form around submerged islands. Lagoon reefs usually refer to those found within the protected waters of lagoons, which are often formed by barrier reefs or atolls. These distinctions help clarify the characteristics that set the fringing reef apart as the type that is directly attached to the shore and widest in areas in front of headlands.