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Source-This post has been created based on the article” Senegal’s pink lake is on the verge of disappearing — how to protect it” published in “Down to Earth” on 19 January 2024.
Why in the news?
Lake Retba, located in Senegal, is under threat of extinction due to increase in Nitrate level and pollution.
About the lake Retba
Location– Lake Retba is also known as Lac Rose (meaning “pink lake”). It is located in Senegal.
Nearest ocean– Lake Retba is separated only by some narrow dunes from the Atlantic Ocean
Salinity– The lake has high salinity content (comparable to that of the Dead Sea)
World heritage listing– It is under consideration by UNESCO for World Heritage Site Status.
Aquatic life– Due to high salinity, many living organisms are not able to survive (Exceptions being a few microscopic algae and bacteria).
Why is the colour of lake pink?
1) Its distinct pink colour is caused by the Dunaliella salina bacteria. This is attracted by the lake’s salt content.
2) The bacteria produces a red pigment to absorb the sunlight, thus giving the lake its unique colour.
3) The Dunaliella salina bacteria is harmless to humans, and swimming in the lake is possible.
Some Other important lakes in West Africa
Lake Bosumtwi in Ghana is the largest natural lake in West Africa.
Lake Volta in Ghana is the largest man-made reservoir in the world.
Lake Chad is a man-made reservoir located in Chad.
About Senegal
Location– West Africa
Capital– Dakar
Neighbouring countries– It shares borders with Mauritania to the North and Northwest; by Mali to the East; by Guinea in the South; by Guinea-Bissau to the Southwest and by the Atlantic Ocean to the West.
UPSC SYLLABUS- GEOGRAPHY (places in news) AND ENVIRONMENT
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