Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, Russia, holds the title of the deepest freshwater lake in the world, with a maximum depth of 1,642 meters (5,387 feet). It is also one of the oldest lakes, estimated to be around 25 million years old. Lake Baikal is unique not only for its depth but also for its biodiversity, as it is home to thousands of plant and animal species, many of which cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Among these is the Baikal seal, the only freshwater seal species in the world.
Ecological Importance and Conservation
Lake Baikal is often referred to as the "Galápagos of Russia" because of its extraordinary biodiversity and its importance as a global ecological treasure. However, it faces environmental threats, including pollution, illegal fishing, and the impact of climate change. In response, various conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the lake's delicate ecosystem. The surrounding Baikal nature reserve and national park aim to safeguard the area's unique species and preserve the lake's pristine waters for future generations. Shutdown123