Algae invade world's deepest lake

Russian and other scientists have observed algae growing rapidly in Lake Baikal since 2011.

Algae grow densely at the bottom of Baikal lake. Photo: NG

According to National Geographic, Lake Baikal in southern Siberia, Russia, is famous for being the deepest and most pristine lake in the world. But in recent years, it has been threatened by algae invasion, causing scientists to have a headache to find the cause of algae growing strongly at the bottom of the lake.

A recent study found that the algae belonged to the genera Spirogyra and Stigeoclonium. The impact of the algae on the ecosystem is unknown. However, scientists measured a drop in oxygen in the lake, which could affect aquatic life. Scientists suspect that the algae blooms are due to fertilizers or human wastewater being dumped into the lake.

"The pollutant needs to be addressed as soon as possible, before it causes more serious consequences. Fortunately, we know how to solve wastewater problems," said Stephanie Hampton, an ecologist at Washington State University in the US.

Scientists are also concerned that Lake Baikal is warming due to climate change. Ms Hampton’s research suggests that this could impact plankton, which could affect the lake’s clarity.

According to VnExpress