The deepest lake in the world is

The correct answer is Lake Baikal.

Key Points

• Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world, with a maximum depth of approximately 1,642 meters (5,387 feet).
• Located in southern Siberia, Russia, Lake Baikal is also the oldest freshwater lake, estimated to be around 25 million years old.
• The lake contains about 20% of the world's unfrozen freshwater, making it the largest freshwater lake by volume.
• It is home to over 1,700 species of flora and fauna, two-thirds of which are unique to the region, including the famous Baikal seal.
• Lake Baikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich biodiversity and geological significance.

Additional Information

• Geological Formation: Lake Baikal lies in an ancient rift valley, making it a tectonic lake formed by shifts in Earth's crust.
• Unique Biodiversity: The lake hosts the Baikal seal (Nerpa), the only freshwater seal species in the world, and various endemic fish species like the omul.
• Climate: The lake's microclimate significantly influences the surrounding region, moderating temperature extremes and supporting unique ecosystems.
• Threats: Lake Baikal faces environmental challenges such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change, which threaten its delicate ecological balance.
• Scientific Research: Due to its depth and clarity, Lake Baikal is a critical site for studying limnology (the study of inland waters) and global climate patterns.