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Exploring the Mystery of Lake Baikal: Why is it the oldest lake on Earth?
Lake Baikal, located in southern Siberia, Russia, is the deepest lake in the world and is home to more than 2,600 species of flora and fauna. This lake is not only famous for its natural beauty, but also for its tens of millions of years of history, making it one of the oldest lakes on Earth. Lake Baikal's majestic beauty inspires awe, but how do we explain the scientific and historical mysteries it holds?
Geography Overview
Lake Baikal was formed about 25 million years ago and is located in the Baykal Rift, one of the most active rift valleys on Earth. It is 636 kilometers long and 79 kilometers wide, with an area of 31,722 square kilometers, making it the largest freshwater lake in Asia. The lake's deepest point is 1,642 meters, which makes Lake Baikal the world's largest freshwater reservoir, accounting for 20% to 23% of global freshwater resources.
"Lake Baikal is the oldest and deepest lake on Earth, with a unique ecosystem and rich geological history."
Hydrological characteristics
Lake Baikal has amazing water quality. The water transparency can reach 30 to 40 meters in winter and is usually between 5 and 8 meters in summer. The lake's water temperature varies with the seasons, and the surface may even be frozen for four to five months in winter. As the ice melts, the surface water temperature rises and the lake water can reach 20 to 24°C in summer.
"Lake Baikal is one of the clearest lakes in the world, with a high oxygen content in the water, which ensures a unique biodiversity."
Biodiversity and the Environment
Lake Baikal is home to more than 2,500 species of animals and more than 1,000 species of plants, most of which are endemic. The ecosystem here is extremely stable and has been studied in detail by many biologists. Of course, the most iconic creature of the lake is the Baikal seal. This seal is the only species that lives in fresh water and is very popular with tourists.
"According to current research, Lake Baikal has a richer biodiversity than most marine environments."
Marks of human history
The area surrounding Lake Baikal has a diverse cultural history, from the ancient Malta-Bret culture to the early Kurikan tribes and later Russian explorers. In the 17th century, Russian explorers first arrived at this unexplored lake, opening a new chapter in the exploration of the lake.
The aura of world heritage
In 1996, UNESCO designated Lake Baikal a World Heritage Site, not only as a recognition of its natural beauty, but also as a reminder of the need to protect this unique ecosystem. With the impact of global climate change, the ecological environment of Lake Baikal is facing severe challenges, and protection work is urgent.
Life of local residents
The east side of the lake is home to the Buryats, who thrive in this natural environment and engage in a variety of livelihoods, including sheep herding and farming. These residents live closely with nature and together they maintain the harmony of this land. But with the process of modernization, how will their lifestyle change?
"The area around Lake Baikal is not only a natural ecology, but also a place where human history and culture converge."
As we stood by the Lake Baikal, the magnificent lake seemed to stretch endlessly before our eyes, and we could not help wondering: In this window into the past, can we find a true way to coexist harmoniously with nature?
