Algae invade the deepest lake in the world

Russian and some other scientists have observed that algae grow very fast in the lake Baikal since 2011.

Algae invade the lake Baikal

According to National Geographic, Lake Baikal in southern Siberia, Russia, is famous as the deepest and most pristine lake in the world. But in recent years, it is threatened by invading algae, causing headaches for scientists to cause the algae to grow strongly on the bottom of the lake.

Algae grow thickly on the bottom of the Baikal. (Photo: NG).

Lake Baikal contains up to 20% of freshwater reserves that are not frozen worldwide.(Photo: NG).

A recent study showed that these algae belong to the genus Spirogyra and Stigeoclonium . The impact of this species on the ecosystem has not been determined. However, scientists measured the reduction of oxygen in the lake, which could affect aquatic life. Scientists suspect that algae thrive is due to manure or waste water pouring into the lake.

"Pollutants need to be remedied as soon as possible, before it has more serious consequences. Fortunately, we know how to solve wastewater problems" , Stephanie Hampton, ecologist from Washington State University, USA, said.

Scientists are also concerned that Lake Baikal warmed up due to climate change. Hampton's research suggests that this affects plankton, affecting the cleanliness of the lake.