Lake Baikal: Russia's Ancient and Mysterious Freshwater Marvel

Lake Baikal: Russia's Ancient and Mysterious Freshwater Marvel
Lake Baikal, situated in southern Siberia, Russia, holds the distinction of being the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake. Estimated to be 25 million years old, it has a maximum depth of 5,387 feet. The lake contains about 20% of the world's unfrozen freshwater and is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 1,700 species of plants and animals, two-thirds of which are unique to the lake.

Among its unique species is the Baikal seal, or nerpa, found only in this lake. The lake is also culturally significant for the indigenous Buryat people, who consider it sacred. Popular activities include ice-skating in winter and diving in summer.

Despite its natural beauty, Lake Baikal faces challenges like industrial pollution and climate change, leading to ongoing conservation efforts.

SEO-Based Keywords
Lake Baikal, Russia, Siberia, world's deepest lake, world's oldest lake, freshwater, unique biodiversity, Baikal seal, nerpa, Buryat people, sacred lake, ice-skating, diving, industrial pollution, climate change, conservation efforts,