25th February, 2024
CHIRANJIT MITRA
● Earth is home to countless lakes, but in the heart of Siberia lies one unlike any other: Lake Baikal. ● Get ready to uncover five mind-blowing facts about this extraordinary natural wonder.
● Lake Baikal isn't just a lake; it's a time capsule. ● Formed an estimated 25-30 million years ago, it's the oldest lake on our planet!
● Forget crystal-clear waters – Lake Baikal takes it to another level. ● Its astonishing clarity allows sunlight to penetrate deep, with visibility often reaching 40 meters (130 feet) below the surface!
● Lake Baikal isn't just water; it's a world unto itself. ● It boasts 27 islands, each a speck in its vastness, and some are even inhabited! ● This unique environment supports a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including species found nowhere else on Earth.
● The sheer size of Lake Baikal means it takes time to renew itself. ● Scientists estimate that a complete water exchange, from top to bottom, occurs on average every 383 years!
● Lake Baikal isn't just the oldest; it's also the deepest freshwater lake on Earth. ● What sets it apart is that its waters are oxygenated down, even at the greatest depths – a phenomenon rarely seen in deep lakes.
Lake Baikal is a testament to the incredible wonders our planet holds. Explore further and discover even more surprises hidden within this extraordinary lake!