Context:
Lake Retba is disappearing in Senegal.
- In this lake, only a few microscopic algae and bacteria are found.
About Lake Retba
- Lake Retba is better known as Lac Rose or the pink lake.
Lake Retba
- Reason for Pink Color: The pink color of the lake is due to the presence of halophilic green algae, specifically Dunaliella salina, containing red pigments.
- Source of Water: The lake Retba is isolated from the sea by sand dunes. Its fresh water comes from the seasonal water table in the dunes, which are higher than the lake.
- Thus the sea provides most of the lake’s water and all of its salt.
- It is situated approximately 35 km from Dakar, Senegal.
Challenges at Senegal’s Pink Lake
- Salt accumulation is the major problem for the pink lake.
The World Health Organization (WHO) deems water potable when nitrate levels are below 50 mg/l. |
- Release of toxic substances from nearby industries, hotels, and tourism can bring harmful chemicals into the water, impacting the lake’s overall ecosystem.
- Uncontrolled tourism can put a strain on the ecosystem which can cause pollution from boats and disturb wildlife.
- Infrastructure projects or land development near the lake can disrupt natural water flow and threaten surrounding dunes, contributing to the water balance.
- Excessive sand extraction and exploitation of surrounding areas can destabilize the lake’s delicate environment.
Also Read: Indian Lakes: Water Ecosystem, Origins, And Challenges
News Source: DownToEarth
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