Introduction
Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa by surface area and is one of the oldest of the Great Lakes. Located in the middle of the African continent and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, Lake Victoria is a hub of biodiversity and is home to numerous endemic species. Over 30 million people have also made their home along its shores. It has been called one of the most important ecological sites in the world by an international panel of experts, and it is often used as a case study for environmental and regulatory studies. So, how big is Lake Victoria?
Physical Dimensions
Lake Victoria stretches across three countries; under international agreement Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya all share ownership and responsibility for the lake. It is the largest lake in Africa with a surface area of 68,800 square kilometers, or 42,500 square miles. In terms of depth, the lake maintains an average depth of 40 to 70 meters, or 130 to 230 feet, and it boasts an incredible maximum depth of 81 meters, or 266 feet. Its size is further augmented by its lake-wide average elevation of 1145 meters, or 3,760 feet, above sea level.
Biological Significance
The importance of Lake Victoria is further heightened by its immense biological significance. At least two thousand species of fish are estimated to inhabit its waters, which include endemic cichlids while the lake is also home to crocodiles and otters. The lake is a major hub for migratory waterfowl and it has been identified as an Important Bird Area, or IBA, by BirdLife International. It is home to over 75 species of waterfowl and out of the 369 mammal species that make their home in the countries surrounding the lake, over 75 species live in the area of the lake itself.
Human Impacts
The human impacts to Lake Victoria have been vast and lengthy. A number of large scale activities have caused environmental changes to occur, including overfishing, pollution, and damming. Overfishing has had an especially significant effect, with the natives of the region relying on the rich diversity of the fish to feed their families, as well as harvest and sale them as a method of income. Overfishing has disrupted the delicate balance that exists within the lake and has threatened the livelihood of the local resident and non-native species alike.
Environmental Monitoring
In recent years, much has been done in order to monitor the health of the lake and what is done by humans around it. Not only do the fisheries establish their own regulations to ensure that the lake isn’t harvested too much but the Lake Victoria Basin Commission conducts its own environmental monitoring of the lake. The commission works to ensure that whatever activities are conducted by or around the lake, such as milling and damming, are done with precautions being taken in order to minimize their negative impacts.
Conservation
The lake has been declared a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance with conservation and management efforts being undertaken by the Lake Victoria Basin Commission in order to preserve the lake. Along with the assistance of numerous nations, organizations, and other groups the commission works to establish and enforce regulations, provide research and assistance for conservation, and even provide funding for revitalization efforts.
Lake Victoria Tourism
The lake is a massive tourism draw as well, with many visitors coming to the area to visit the lake and experience the abundant beauty that it has to offer. From its waters to the surrounding wildlife and cities, visitors will be privy to a variety of different activities and attractions. From bird watching to sailing, and even exploring the hundreds of nearby islands, there is something to do for everyone.
Aquaculture Industry
The aquaculture industry in the Lake Victoria basin is a major contributor to the regional GDP, with fish harvesting making up a large portion of the region’s income. From small scale fishery operations and tilapia farming to larger fish farms, the local economy and culture owe a significant part of their sustenance to the vast and diverse aquatic life that exists within the lake.
Effects of Climate Change
The effects of climate change on the lake have been documented, with a decrease in water levels and an increase in water temperature being observed. Additionally, changes in rainfall levels as well as changes in vegetation and water clarity have also been observed. Local wildlife has also been affected, with many fish migrating in order to find colder temperatures.
Conclusion
Lake Victoria is a great example of both the power of humans to inhabit and affect our planet, as well as the adaptability of nature and its creatures. With its immense size, life diversity and level of importance, Lake Victoria is one of the most fascinating and important aquatic environments in the world.
