Explore the diverse world of lakes, essential freshwater bodies shaping Earth's landscapes and ecosystems. From glacial formations to volcanic lakes, they are...
A lake is a substantial body of relatively still freshwater (or sometimes saline) completely enclosed by land, without direct connection to the ocean.
Many lakes, especially large ones, are formed by glacial activity, where glaciers carve out depressions that later fill with meltwater. Other formations include volcanic craters, tectonic shifts, and river meanders.
Lakes are vital freshwater reservoirs supporting diverse aquatic and terrestrial species. They provide habitats, regulate local climates, and are essential sources of water for human consumption and agriculture.
Lakes worldwide contend with significant threats including pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial waste, the impacts of climate change, and the spread of invasive species.