Lake Superior is the largest and deepest of the Great Lakes, located on the Ontario-Minnesota border in North America. With its enormous size, it’s no surprise to discover that the depths of Lake Superior holds a number of mysteries and astonishing secrets. From shipwrecks for over 350 years to stories of special species, let’s delve deeply into what exactly lies beneath the surface.
Much of Lake Superior’s islands and coastline are steep and rugged. These features provide a natural barrier which traps light-weight debris at the bottom of the lake contributing to low visibility. In some locations the bottom of Lake Superior can look like a giant desert of fine sand and silt with visibility of only a few inches. The murky depths of Lake Superior are home to numerous species such as burbot, lake sturgeon, lake trout, whitefish and walleye.
The vast surface area of Lake Superior also provides ideal habitat for many species of fish. These fish are attracted to the plentiful food sources and the shelter that is provided by the rugged underwater caves and crevices, rock formations and the numerous shipwrecks that lay in the depths.
The ruins of some of these boatwrecks are eerie and mysterious. At least 350 shipwrecks are currently registered in the lake’s officially maintained records, however countless more are thought to be buried and waiting to be discovered. Many of these wrecks date back to the 17th century, and some even have tales of ghost ships aboard them. To add to the thrill, some of these wrecks have remained untouched and unopened for centuries, adding an extra layer of mystery.
Unfortunately some of the secrets held by Lake Superior have been disturbed. In an effort to uncover the mysteries of the great lake, researchers and scientists have carried out numerous studies. Many research projects have been conducted in areas such as geology, archaeology and biology to uncover the history and secrets held by the lake.
One of the most notable discoveries in Lake Superior is the existence of fresh water jellyfish. Their presence has a sense of mystery and intrigue that is almost impossible to ignore. In some areas, these jellyfish can be seen suspended in the depths, adding an unexpected marvel to the depths of the lake.
Some of the most fascinating findings of Lake Superior are the numerous animal species that inhabit the lake. Scientists describe the lake as being an enclosed environment that is home to a unique set of species. These species, that are endemic to the lake, can be found nowhere else in the world. This lake is home to many species of fish, reptiles and even a type of shrimp that is believed to be over 400 years old.
Oceanic Species
The cold temperatures at the depths of Lake Superior have hindered the growth of plant life and hence the replacement of nutrients. Such nutrient deficiency keeps any trace of oceanic species away from the lake. It also brings down the rate of predatory species, like sharks, and species accustomed to warmer ecosystems. Numerous seasonal migratory birds, however, do take shelter at the banks of the lake, feeding on the variety of fishes, insects and crustaceans.
Condition Of The Lakeshore
Most of the Lake Superior has razor-straight, heavily eroded shorelines making it difficult to apply for beaches and recreational activities. However, in some areas, the shoreline is fairly karst in nature. These areas often contain huge boulders, glacial till and limestone deposits with rich potential for scientific exploration. Additionally, many areas of the lake have strong currents with dangerous shipwrecks scattered around.
Future Concerns
As many exotic species colonize the Lake Superior, they may compete with the native species for resources. It is assumed that the native species may lose out in terms of the competition leading to an imbalance in the lake’s ecosystem. Researchers also believe that a surge in the pollution of Lake Superior is likely to reduce the amount of aquatic life present. This is due to the fact that pollutants get trapped in the lake, leading to an increase in the amount of nutrients in the lake.
Conclusion
Lake Superior is a true marvel with a truly distinct biodiversity. Its immense size and mysterious depths have kept its secrets for generations. With the advances in modern technology, researchers are beginning to uncover some of the mysteries of the lake. From the creatures that lurk in its depths to the eerie shipwrecks that line its floor, the lake is home to a unique and fascinating ecosystem.
