Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal is located in southern Siberian Russia. What makes the lake so special is that it is the deepest lake in the world at a depth of 5,371 feet. The Selenga, Barguzin, and Verkhnaya Rivers flow into its area of 12,510 square miles. Many mountains surround the lake, giving it a mythical appearance. Lake Baikal’s waters are extremely clear. Many different types of animals live in the lake including sturgeon, salmon, and freshwater seals.

Lake Baikal was discovered in 1643 and provided a trade route between China and Russia. Over time, fishing and pollution diminished the animal life in the lake. But a ban on fishing (1969 to 1977) restored much of the animal and plant life.

Sites for further Information

    "The Lake Baikal Homepage"
   http://www.icc.ru/baikal/

   "Russia's Great Lakes"
   http://www.earthwatch.org/x/Xtaganov.html

    "Transcript - Lake Baikal"
   http://www.earthsky.com/1997/es970625.html

    "Lake Baikal Basin"
    http://www.wcmc.org.uk/protected_areas/data/wh/baikal.htm

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