STATUES OF LAKE NATRON SKIN

As such, humans would not only be unable to survive in Lake Natron’s environment but would also quickly succumb if their legs were exposed for any length of time.įlamingos are well-adapted to their environment in Lake Natron, Tanzania. Furthermore, the presence of hot springs on the outer edges of the lake form lagoons with lower salinity levels that are still far too dangerous for humans to inhabit. Additionally, water levels have been too high for the flamingos to nest this year, meaning any human attempting to enter would be unable to find a suitable place to rest or swim. The lake has an average temperature of around 35☌ (95☏) and a salinity of betwen 9-17%, making it one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth. No, humans cannot survive in Lake Natron due to its high temperature and extremely high salinity. Additionally, the lake contains an abundance of microorganisms that produce sodium carbonate (the same chemical found in baking soda) and bicarbonates which can rapidly calcify any creatures that enter the water, effectively turning them into stone statues.

STATUES OF LAKE NATRON SKIN

This extreme alkalinity can case skin and eye irritation if exposed for too long. The water of the lake has an extremely high pH, reaching as high as 10.5, which is one of the highest of any natural body of water on Earth. The lake is located in northern Tanzania and has a unique ecosystem due to its high alkalinity. If you were to jump into Lake Natron, you would be met with a number of dangers. Source: Dangers of Jumping into Lake Natron Lake Natron is so deadly because its extreme alkalinity makes it impossible for most animals to survive in such an acidic environment. The alkalinity is caused by the influx of sodium carbonate and othr minerals coming into the lake from its surrounding hills, creating an inhospitable environment for most creatures. This means that the water is highly corrosive and can burn the skin and eyes of any animal not adapted to it. Lake Natron has a pH as high as 10.5, making it extremely alkaline and caustic. For anyone brave enough to venture out thre – make sure you remember your sunscreen! The Deadly Effects of Lake Natron

This year, water levels have risen too high for flamingos to nest on its shores, making it more difficult for these birds to reproduce.ĭespite these dangers, Lake Natron remains an incredibly fascinating place where one can witness firsthand some of nature’s most remote ecosystems thriving within its waters. Unfortunately for some creatures, Lake Natron is also home to many predatory fish species as well as algae blooms which are toxic to other aquatic life forms.

Statues of lake natron