The lake’s extreme salinity acts as a protection from predators, enabling the flamingoes to breed without fear of predation. Surprisingly, Lake Natron is also a sanctuary for lesser flamingoes, who use the lake as their only regular breeding area. Some fish species can survive along the lake’s edge, where the water is less salty and hostile. The lake’s cyanobacteria are responsible for the lake’s red color. The lake essentially sends a message with its bright red color, warning those who cannot tolerate the hostile conditions to stay away.ĭespite its apparent inhospitable conditions, salt-loving organisms that can withstand the lake’s high temperatures thrive in Lake Natron, including endemic algae, invertebrates, and birds. The salt causes the lake to be highly alkaline, sometimes reaching a pH of 12 out of 14! Lake Natron’s temperature can reach up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius), which, combined with the extreme salinity, makes it an inhospitable place for most animals. This 35-mile long and 15-mile wide lake is a salt lake water flows in, but not out, and as the water evaporates, it leaves behind high concentrations of salt and minerals. Lake Natron, one of the most serene lakes in all of Africa, is located in northern Tanzania and nestled in the East African Rift System. If you were thinking of taking a dip in Lake Natron – think again.
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