The largest lakes in Russia. The largest and most beautiful lakes in Russia. New data on the depth of Lake Baikal

Our Fatherland is the largest state on the planet. Accordingly, there are too many bodies of water, including lakes, in its area. Here we will talk about the latter. The lakes of Russia in some regions do not remind of themselves, but somewhere, on the contrary, there are a lot of them: without knowing the ford, you will drown. The Russian Federation ranks 4th in terms of the number of enclosed natural pools. There are over 2 million such hydrological formations on its territory. Even without taking into account the Caspian Sea, they occupy 350,000 square meters. km, which is almost equal to the area of ​​present-day Germany. And each is interesting in its own way. We decided to build a review about lakes in Russia in the same vein as the review, indicating only the very best, since it is simply impossible to list everything within the framework of this article.

The largest lakes in Russia

The giant water areas located inside the continents are, of course, northern phenomenon. The top five water giants are located in countries such as Russia, the USA and Canada. It is here that natural depressions of enormous dimensions are located in the ground - traces of the initial deflection of the planet’s surface between mountain formations. We were the first to describe the largest of the Russian relict reservoirs. Only then come its nine “brothers” - in order of decreasing size.

Caspian (371,000.00 sq. km.)

Lakes in Russia like this would be more correctly called seas. They have properties that satisfy two categories at once. However, there are no such incomprehensible “drops” of the world ocean on Earth anymore... The largest diameter of the Caspian basin (in a straight line) is 1200 kilometers. That is, even by plane from the suburbs of Kazakh Atyrau to a pier somewhere in the Iranian Chalus area, we would fly as much as 1.5 hours. The length of the coastline is as much as 7,000 kilometers! Another feature that puts this “lake” in the group of seas is the bed. It is formed by oceanic type crust. The average depth of the Caspian Sea is only 208 meters, the greatest is 1025.

It remains to add that the etymology of the name of the object goes back to the ethnonym “Caspian”, whom Herodotus called “cattle breeders related to the Medes.” have been dividing 5 countries for a long time. On this moment It is believed that water itself is the common property of Russia, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Iran and Azerbaijan.

Baikal (31500.00 sq. km.)

Took position No. 2, which is not surprising. The distance from the mouth of the Kichera River to the village of Slyudyanka is 612 kilometers. In fact, this diameter is approximately equal to the road from the Moscow MKAD to Belgorod. Here you can go under water to 744-1642 meters. The Baikal shores are the territories of the Irkutsk region and the Republic of Buryatia. The water area is considered the largest reservoir of clean water. Thousands of species of endemic flora and fauna grow and live around. This is the most “ecological” patch of the country. “By Gal” is translated from Buryat as “mighty water”. Indeed, its volume is 23,615.39 cubic kilometers! Why? In fact, not only the above-ground dimensions of the reservoir are amazing, but also its depth. This, by the way, will be discussed in one of the lower paragraphs.

Ladozhskoye (17703.00 sq. km.)

At its greatest length (from the village of Putilovo to the far suburb of the Kiryavalahti farm) it is 219 kilometers, which makes it worthy of third place. In size and shape, it is a little reminiscent of Slovenia turned on its other side. The maximum possible dive into the blue surface is 230 meters, but the average dive will be 47 meters. The transparency is also amazing – visibility is almost 4 meters. Our Slovenian ancestors (one of the founders of Novgorod) called the lake the word “Nevo”, which in one of the Finnish dialects meant “quagmire”. There are really a lot of swamps around this tract. Later the hydronym “Ladoga” appeared. It is connected to a river that accumulates water flow from nearby regions of the Russian Federation and Finland.

Onega (9616.00 sq. km.)

The most large lakes Russia often lies close to each other. - neighbor of Ladozhsky, described above. Although the body of water is in 4th place in terms of size, countries such as Liechtenstein and Andorra would fit quite well on its surface. The average depth is 30 meters, but in some places it is possible to go under water to 127 meters. It is located on the border of the Republic of Karelia, Vologda and Leningrad regions. Studying the folklore of the Russian North, one can understand that this source of moisture is the receptacle of the deity Onego (“Sandy Plain”).

Taimyr (4560.00 sq. km.)

And now it’s worth moving to the north of Siberia - to the Taimyr Peninsula. It becomes clear that its center is occupied by a large “blob” with the same name. - already a polar hydrological formation, deepened by an average of 2.8 meters. It is equal in length to Liechtenstein. Its waters and shores are the territory of the reserve of the same name, the purpose of which is to protect the relict fauna of the tundra and Arctic fish. By the way, “Taimur” is translated from one of the local languages ​​as “rich in fish,” and it comes from the Nizhnyaya Taimyra river.

In August, the water temperature rises to +8°C. It’s still too cold for swimming, but you’ll be more comfortable fishing. Waiting in the water are goby (Siberian sculpin), grayling, vendace, burbot and the divine-tasting omul. Some of this ichthyofauna is recorded in the Red Book. Therefore, be careful. The shores of “Rich in Fish” in warm seasons are dotted with wild geese and ducks, swans, local species of buzzards, as well as formidable guard peregrine falcons.

Khanka (4190.00 sq. km.)

On the map it lies at the border of the Russian Primorsky Territory and the Chinese province of Heilongjiang. Even on its small (compared to previous bowls) surface, Luxembourg would fit quite well. On average, Khanka goes 4.5 meters deep. This is the largest freshwater source in the Far East, and a very ancient one. From the Manchu language, the idiom “Hankai” is translated as “lake of Prosperity”. There is one romantic legend associated with this hydronym concerning the blue crystal of the Sea King. They missed him in the treasury and went to look for him “among the people.” But the people were not aware. The jewel was taken away by a young prankster dragon, who was subsequently exiled to the described lake. Then he showed his head out of the water, scaring the Jurchens (after all, it was the ancestors of the Udege who came up with the myth).

Chudsko-Pskovskoe (3555.00 sq. km.)

Amazing lakes Russia is merging due to natural reasons. This happened with the Chudskoye and Pskov lakes. On their ice, the combined forces of the Novgorod Land beat and drowned the heavily armed cavalry of several knightly orders that captured the Baltic states in the 12th and 13th centuries. The longest cruise on these waters is 135 kilometers. The water areas connected by a channel occupy the central third of the borderland of the Pskov region and Estonia. One is named after the Russian city, and the other is “Chudi” (as the Novgorodians called all contact Finno-Baltic ethnic groups that were in constant contact with them).

Uvsu-Nur (3350.00 sq. km.)

One bank of the desired water body belongs to Russia (the Republic of Tyva), the other to the Mongolian People's Republic. At its greatest diameter the tract is 81 kilometers. You could drown the island of Mauritius in it. Although the water only reaches a level of 10 meters (the tops of some houses would stick out). The bowl is located at the bottom of the basin of the same name, recognized as the most unusual nature reserve in Russia. After all, here all the landscapes of the temperate zone of our planet are replaced at once. Check it out for yourself. Russia, for example, inherited a hilly steppe.

Uvs-Nur (as the local Khoton Mongols call the lake) is famous for the unique color of its water surface. This shade is not found anywhere else in the world. Strange, the name of the reservoir cannot be translated from the Mongolian language. But on the rocks there are many runic inscriptions of the Xiongnu people, whose nomads passed here on their way to Europe. Perhaps the hydronym migrated from them.

Beloe (1290.00 sq. km.)

This body of water, located in the 9th position, is equal in size to Bahrain or Micronesia... From the Vepsian language “vauged yarv” - “White Lake”. That’s why the first Slavic population of the Vologda region christened the water that way. Its average depth is 4 meters, the greatest is 20. Today Beloye is a reach of the Sheksninsky reservoir. The area between the artificial sea and the lake is a real treasure trove of unsolved mysteries. Let's take, for example, the Ferapontov Monastery with its “miraculous” spring. Hundreds of people swear that he healed them of an incurable illness...

Or how did the nearby mountain get the name Maura? There are no such lexemes in local languages. Some suggest that in the argot of the Vyatichi this is “Black Mountain”. All that remains is to find out how the Vyatichi themselves could have gotten here. After all, the Vologda region was developed from both sides by the Krivichi, Slovenes and the ancestors of the Vepsians. There are many myths associated with the hill. Rurik sent his clan to reign in the hilly area, and the locals did not really want to obey his patriarch, the “robber” Sineus. According to some hypotheses, the Varangians controlled the entrusted area from a dominant height. Belozersk itself raises questions (in the old days - Beloozero). Archaeologists have proven that the corresponding settlement appeared only 100 years after the events described in the Tale of Bygone Years. Where was Sineus's insatiable squad actually stationed?

Chany (1990.00 sq. km.)

The list of “Amazing Lakes of Russia” would most likely include Chany. This is a constantly changing body of water located in Novosibirsk region. At the best of times, its greatest diameter reaches 18 kilometers (exactly the greatest length of the state of San Marino, surrounded by Italy). In fact, we are talking about a whole system of forested reaches. They are intricately intertwined. water body recognized as the largest in the list of salt lakes in our country. The term “Vats” is borrowed from the vocabulary of the Old Believers of Russia, who call large bowls “chans”.

The most famous lake in Russia

The already mentioned Baikal also appears in RuNet as the most famous lake in Russia. Several popular aggregators made it this way: the Russian Seven portal, the Travelers Club magazine, the tourist operator Irkutsk Baikal Travel and, of course, many environmental communities, from Green Peace to the All-Russian Society for Nature Conservation. The fact is that the cup constantly has to fall from all kinds of businessmen, they are trying to spoil the patrimony of the spirit of Burkhan with their dirty production... Another fact is also important: “Mighty water” in the 20th century. immediately became known as the main reservoir of fresh water, the longest (after the Caspian Sea) closed natural reservoir and the deepest lake on the planet.

The most beautiful lake in Russia

Dozens of drainage and drainless basins competed for the title of “the most beautiful lake in Russia.” However, Shaitan won (according to the majority of those who voted) (in the southern quarter of the Kirov region, the Bushkovsky Forest reserve even formed around him). The fact is that “islands” drift along the surface of the 220-meter lake. They are made up of shrubs and even small trees of extraordinary beauty. And all this against the backdrop of floating pink lotus flowers! The beauty is hidden from vandals by swamps. There is only one safe road leading here. This is the exit from the Indygoika – Bolshiye Gari highway.

For some reason, the river closest to the lake is called the Dog (apparently it “guards” the water pearl of the reserve). The name of the lake itself means “devil” from Tatar. The fact is that it sometimes gushes, forcing local fishermen to cross themselves. This is the release of artesian water. It is worth paying attention to the fact that some water columns reach a height of 10 and a width of 1.5 meters! Due to such processes, the water level rises, and it captures everything that is available from the banks. This is how the famous islands are formed. Many of them carry 4 adults. One more thing. Although the water tract is small in size, its depth is 12 meters.

The northernmost lake in Russia

Taimyr, described in one of the upper chapters, is the northernmost lake in Russia, and, according to many geographers, of the whole world. After all, it passes through 81 degrees north latitude. To the north there are only “ice” lakes. In winter, the thickness of frozen water reaches 3 meters.

The southernmost lake in Russia

The southernmost lake in Russia is easy to identify by looking at the map. The lowest parallels are occupied by the Republic of Dagestan. One of its river valleys (Ulluchayskaya) wedges into the foothills of the Watershed Range of the Caucasus mountain system. It is here that we will discover Papas (Aji) - 800 hectares that are fed with water. Due to the barbaric attitude of people, today the water source is only 80 percent full. The length of the lake basin stretches for 5 kilometers (from the bank of the Artazen River to the agricultural canal). But the water column here is only 1.5 meters (some parts of the basin, alas, have dried out). Flamingos and several species of rare birds live here. “Aji” is translated from the Kumyk language as “bitterness.”

The westernmost lake in Russia

By definition, the westernmost lake in Russia should be located in the Kaliningrad region. This is true. The Sinyavinsky coastal estuary lies on the most protruding (into the Gulf of Gdansk, and practically into Poland) cape of this region. Its greatest length is 2 kilometers (the waterway from the village of Sinyavino to the working village of Yantarny). You can dive here to 30 m. The place belongs to the Zelenograd urban district. Once upon a time, the inhabitants of Sinyavino mined amber at the bottom of this pit. She was named after them.

The easternmost lake in Russia

Talking about the easternmost lake in Russia, let us mention that it was born on Cape Dezhnev (Chukchi Autonomous Okrug) - the point of mainland Russia closest to the United States. His name is Koolen (in local languages ​​- Koolen, Koglu). To the east of it there is only a lagoon on which the village of Uelen stands (but the lagoon is not usually considered a lake, it is a sea backwater). The name "Kolen" is translated as "failure". The length of this “dip” is 15 kilometers, the area is 18.5 “squares”, and the lowest point of the bottom is lowered by 100 meters (which, by the way, indicates its antiquity). The only attraction of this reservoir is the mountain on its shore (almost 940-meter peak). The fact is that no one except the Chukchi can pronounce its name. Why? It sounds like “Yttyvyt”.

The deepest lake in Russia

And again we have to talk about Baikal, since it is also the deepest lake in Russia. In this regard, its parameter reaches 1642 meters. The average water thickness is 744 meters. The most common water thickness is 920-1000 meters. The deepest place of the lake bottom is opposite the island. Olkhon. This is what we are told by hydrologists who studied the lake topography with the help of equipped submarines “Pysis” and “Mir”. After riding these devices, the researchers determined many other things. Shallow water areas occupy only a narrow strip near the shore. In other locations we see a truly high-mountain “Atlantis” - deepest canyons(one of them is a kilometer long) and the tall peaks of the Academic Range. To put it simply, the entire bottom consists of three deep depressions.

The smallest lake in Russia

Here hydrologists cannot have any discrepancies. The smallest lake in Russia is Manych-Gudilo, part of which completely dries out during the dry season. The average depth of the barely visible hydrological feature is 60 centimeters. By the way, this elongated natural reservoir (its length is 53 kilometers, so the western end reaches Rostov region) is a section of the border separating Europe from Asia in the south, and in a more local version, the Republic of Kalmykia from the Stavropol Territory (now the Caucasus). This water area is fed by the Manych River. And on the banks of the reservoir there are most of the mustangs (their range is part of the Chernye Zemli GBZ). By the way, in spring the protected land is covered with a special variety of colors. You can get here safely only through the village of Yashalta.

The longest lake in Russia

If we still recognize the Caspian as the type of reservoir described here, then the longest lake in Russia is precisely it (remember that it takes 1.5 hours to fly over it). If we take into account the bowls that have only lake status, then we will again talk about Baikal.

The smallest lake in Russia

Identifying the smallest lake in Russia is the same as finding a needle in a haystack. However, there were scientists who nevertheless achieved success in this field, calling the lake Kuokansuo (which is the northern continuation of the swamp of the same name). Its maximum diameter is 130 meters. That is, it can take second position in the ranking of the smallest lakes in the world (“Olympus” is already occupied by the 125-meter Mexican water bowl Sarasota). Kuokansuo (“plowed around”) was discovered on the border between our Karelia and Finland (between the Karelian reservoir Thulos and the Finnish Ruunanyarvi). The reservoir is connected by a channel to Tuzhiozero, which is actually “plowed” on all sides by forest clearings. And still the places are dense. Swamp…

The highest lake in Russia

Dzhulukul is the highest lake in Russia. After all, we are talking about an altitude of 2200 meters above sea level. Its address is the Altai Mountains, the basin of the Shapshalsky ridge (administratively the location belongs to the Ulagansky district, it is part of the Altai Nature Reserve). The most opposite shores are separated by 10 kilometers. The greatest depth of the water tract is 7 meters, the average is 4. It is of moraine-dammed origin. The area is surrounded by cormorants and seagulls, rare for Altai. The etymology of the name is related to the Turkic words julu (“summer”) and kul (“lake”).

The freshest lake in Russia

As a result of the latest measurements, it turned out: Vach-Lake (Vyachezero) is the most fresh lake Russia (not to be confused with the largest fresh water reservoir in Russia, which again is Baikal). Located on the border of Karelia and Leningrad region, in the middle reaches of the Svir. With an area of ​​17 sq. km, it managed to salinize less than 0.5% of its water volume. The maximum length of this moisture source is 10 km. In the common language of the Slavs, the word “vyachezero” is translated as “eternal lake”. The tribal union of Slovenians (Ilmenians) considered its waters to be the “gateway” to Vyriy (as the Slavs called paradise). Nobody settled here. Civilization has bypassed the patch (there are still no villages on the lake shores; only a rarely used railway track runs nearby).

The saltiest lake in Russia

Elton is the most salt Lake Russia (and at the same time the lowest of all salty). Researchers know that the mineral saturation rate at Elton is one and a half times higher than the number associated with the Dead Sea (200-500 g/l). This closed pool lies in the neutral zone on the border with Kazakhstan (in the east of the Volgograd region). Its area is 152 sq. km, and its maximum length is 18 km. Depth – 1 m. The name of the salt marsh is a copy of the Kalmyk (essentially Mongolian) expression “altyn nor” (“golden mine”). They come here along the railway road through Pallasovka or through Bykovo (road only). We are talking about a fragment of the Eltonsky nature reserve, on the territory of which there is a balneological health resort.

The hottest lake in Russia

When listing amazing enclosed bodies of water, one cannot ignore the lake. Fumarolic. It’s like a bath in which a kind wizard has already heated the water for you! After all, its temperature is usually more than +50°C. The hottest lake in Russia is located on the Kamchatka Peninsula. If there were fish in it, then tourists could come with camping pots and scoop out ready-made fish soup from here, seasoned with boiled seaweed. But no one lives in the boiling water itself. All the inhabitants huddle on the shore. These are mostly northern birds and brown bears.

Where does the heating come from? It’s just that the reservoir is the caldera of an active volcano (the “gas burner” itself of the fire-breathing Mount Uzon heats up to +125°C). The basin-vent has dimensions of 300 by 600 meters, and its depth is “infinite.” Let us add that it is an altitude with a position of 700 meters above sea level. All this “joy” is part of the Kronotsky State Nature Reserve.

The coldest lake in Russia

Gate is the name of a closed hydrological formation on the territory of the Oymyakonsky ulus of Yakutia (the place where the permafrost belt begins, hence, apparently, the idea of ​​​​the “hospitable” name). The water area is known as the coldest lake in Russia. The temperature regime of the water pool allows it to warm up only to... -90°C. That is, we always observe it in a solid state. You should relax here not on a boat or an inflatable mattress, but on a boat, ice skates or a harnessed sleigh. And there are places to ride here, because the largest diameter of the Gate is 3.5 kilometers. Start from the channel of the lake. Verkhny, and finish at the channel of the lake. Burnogo. And yes... They saw a monster here.

The cleanest lake in Russia

Environmental specialists, having conducted a number of studies, trumpet that the cleanest lake in Russia is Seliger. Its ancient name is Transparent. And it is completely justified. The bottom is visible perfectly, almost without distortion. And this despite the fact that at some points it is separated from the observer by a 24-meter thick layer of water. The fact is that this water is not just clean (as in the very fresh and deep Lake Baikal), but CRYSTAL clear. The literal explanation of the phenomenon is that brainy guys checked every Seliger crystal for lice. The curved surface of water, lost between the picturesque towns of Ostashkov and Valdai, was created exclusively by glacial rivers (110 of them in total).

In fact, we are talking about a system of lakes with a total area of ​​260 square kilometers and a length of 48 kilometers. Over the centuries, 160 islands have formed here. The largest of them is Khachin. There are two boarding houses on it. And here they hold forums. You can go crazy, but on Khachin itself there are also... lakes (“details” of Seliger).

The most polluted lake in Russia

At the end of the review, we are left with the most unpleasant work - to describe the most polluted lake in Russia. And here again we should give the floor to environmentalists who have shouted about the tragedy of one place. If the phenomenon of a Black Hole in deep space causes curiosity, then the lake with the same name causes fear and disgust. Judge for yourself, the Black Hole is essentially a saturated solution of water and extremely toxic waste from the Soviet Plexiglas plant. This gloomy location is located on a section of the “chemical belt” of Russia - between Nizhny Novgorod and Dzerzhinsky. To avoid accidents, it should have been filled in long ago and surrounded by a fence. But the process began only recently. The stench from the “post-apocalyptic” pond is so strong that it drowns out the smell of fires! At the moment, the Nizhny Novgorod pollution zone at its greatest diameter is 800 m. Of course, no one dares to measure the depth. The Ministry of Emergency Situations surrounded everything with a fence with barbed wire and a stop poster on a high stick. The “hole” is buried.

Now our reader has become familiar with something like “passports” for those lakes in Russia that could be included in one or another rating. When thinking about where to go on vacation, you will remember this review and think about what is more important to you: size, cleanliness, geographical position, salinity level, altitude and so on. Baikal, for example, made its way into 4 categories of the “lake competition” at once. Everyone is rushing here. However, as you understand, there are other pleasantly surprising water areas in our regions.

Lakes are one of the national treasures of our homeland. In terms of their number, Russia occupies a leading place in the world. Natural bodies of water can be small and large, salty and freshwater, shallow and deep, densely populated and desert. We offer a rating of the largest. It includes reservoirs that deservedly occupy the first places.

Caspian Sea

The Caspian Sea is the most big lake in Russia by area. It is so huge that it is commonly called the sea. Moreover, there is water throughout the entire territory, with the exception of the northern ones. The area of ​​the Caspian Sea is approximately four hundred thousand square kilometers, and the maximum depth is more than a thousand meters. That is why it tops the “Largest Lakes in the World” rating. Russia can be proud of one of the most precious pearls of the planet. Thanks to the magnificent scenery and unforgettable beaches The Caspian Sea is gradually becoming one of the popular and favorite places among travelers.

According to one concept, the largest lake in Russia received its name thanks to the Caspians - ancient tribes that lived on the southwest coast. This is confirmed by the remains that archaeologists have found to this day. But these days the Caspian Sea is mostly famous for its unique reserves.

The reservoir, located on the border of Europe and Asia, belongs to five countries at the same time and brings them great profits. We are talking about Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Azerbaijan. Since the beginning of the 19th century, active production of natural gas and oil began. Currently, there are a large number of installations on the lake, and reserves, according to authoritative experts, reach up to twenty billion tons.

Baikal

The largest freshwater lake in Russia by area is Baikal. total area is 31,500 square kilometers. However, it is a world record holder for one more parameter. The reservoir has the deepest place (up to 1640 m) compared to other lakes on the entire planet. Baikal is located in eastern Siberia between the Irkutsk region and Buryatia.

Baikal is a legendary lake, which can be divided into three parts: northern, southern and middle. Each of them has its own landscape, climate and unique vegetation. The largest lake in Russia by area is the largest freshwater reservoir, which includes about ninety percent of its reserves. 336 rivers of various sizes flow into it, and one flows out - the Angara. Apparently, this is why the waters of the lake are distinguished by their extraordinary purity, transparency and the presence of a rich fauna, half of which is local exclusive.

Lakes Onega and Ladoga

These two bodies of water are very similar, and it is usually no coincidence that they are combined. They are located in the northwestern part of Russia in the Vologda and Leningrad regions, in Karelia.

Therefore, the reservoirs are the same in origin. The area is almost two times smaller than its “brother” (9,700 and 17,600 km², respectively). On the banks of reservoirs unique nature, the clear waters are rich in a variety of fish species. This place in Russia is famous for the cultural, historical and religious monuments located on it. We are talking about which has been functioning for about a thousand years monastery, about the island of Kizhi with a complex of famous wooden churches and bell towers.

Taimyr

If we talk about which lake in Russia is the largest in area, then we have already indicated the answer earlier. This, of course, is the Caspian Sea, but it is the northern record holder. It is located on the peninsula of the same name in the Krasnoyarsk Territory.

Throughout the year, with the exception of one and a half months, the reservoir is eighty percent covered with ice, under which arctic fish species swim. If we talk about the size, it is quite difficult to give an exact figure due to fluctuations in its level. Often the area reaches more than four and a half square kilometers.

Khanka

The lake is located on the border with China, on Far East our country. Thanks to this, it is the center of the region's tourism industry, as travelers have the opportunity to get acquainted with the customs, traditions and culture of two unique and distinctive countries. The area of ​​the reservoir, compared to the Caspian Sea, is small: about ten times less. But despite this, the fauna of the lake is truly unique. The waters are home to seventy-five species of fish, some of which are listed in the Red Book.

Vats

If we consider the largest lake in Russia by area, then Chany ranks seventh. The reservoir is considered enchanted and unique. According to ancient legend, it is home to a huge dragon that feeds on people and domestic animals. Naturally, no one has seen it and there is no scientific evidence, but the story clearly attracts tourists. The area of ​​the reservoir reaches two thousand square kilometers, in deep place- seven meters.

Lake Beloe

This reservoir is located in the Vologda region and is famous for its rich fauna. The area of ​​the lake is small: about 1300 square kilometers, it is relatively shallow (up to twelve meters). The nature in this place is unique: a complex of sandy beaches, birch and pine groves, clean air, beautiful sunsets. In connection with this, the reservoir is loved by tourists and fishermen who come to it from all over Russia.

It is no coincidence that the lake received its name. Despite the fact that its bottom is rocky, there is a light clay layer below. In calm weather conditions the water is clear and clean. But at the slightest disturbance, particles of clay rise from the bottom, and the picture completely changes. The lake takes on a characteristic whitish hue.

Topozero

The reservoir is located in the Loukhsky district, in the northern part of Karelia. The lake has a winding shoreline, making it a favorite spot for kayakers. Part of the coast is decorated sandy beaches, framed by rocky hills. The area of ​​the reservoir is about a thousand square kilometers, and the maximum depth reaches fifty-six meters. Previously it was navigable. Currently, the lake attracts fishermen: its waters are home to salmon, perch, bream and pike.

There are many legends associated with Topoozero. According to one of the ancient legends, monks who adhered to the old faith lived there. On the shores of the lake, trenches, shell craters and abandoned villages are visible as traces of the bloody battles of the Great Patriotic War.

Ilmen

If we consider the largest lake in Russia, then in tenth place is the Ilmen reservoir, located in the Novgorod region. Its size varies depending on the time of year and what the water level is. This is a lake of glacial origin. The waters have a yellowish tint. This is due to the fact that they contain a large amount of organic substances. But the water changes completely approximately six times a year, thanks to tributaries and the special structure of the pit. The name of the lake is associated with many legends. The most popular is the myth that tells about the life of the Scythian princes Sloven and Ruse. It was they who named the reservoir in honor of sister Ilmera.

We have reviewed the largest and beautiful lakes Russia. Naturally, the list does not include all bodies of water, only the most significant ones that are located on our vast territory. In this respect, Russia is a uniquely rich state.

Currently, no one can say how many lakes there are in the country. The number of small reservoirs in Russia amounts to thousands. Moreover, they don’t even have their own name. Most often they are named after the name of the locality. By official version, the smallest lake in Russia is considered to be the unique ghost reservoir Ertso, which is located in South Ossetia.

Every three to five years it goes completely underground. There is a feeling that the lake has disappeared forever. But it appears again and again, surprising everyone with its unexpected return.

The nature of Russia, the largest state on the planet, is amazing and multifaceted. Freshwater and salty lakes of Russia are located throughout the country, in all its natural zones and climatic zones. Today there are 2 million reservoirs with a total area of ​​350 thousand square kilometers.

Caspian Sea

The Caspian Sea is the largest enclosed body of water on Earth and the largest lake in our country. Formally, this is an endorheic lake, which the ancient Romans called the sea - they were so amazed when they saw its size and noticed that the water was salty. And it is called Caspian in honor of the tribes of the Caspian Sea, who in those days lived on the shore of the reservoir. The area of ​​the reservoir is 390 thousand square meters. km.

In fact, it can be classified both as a large endorheic lake and as a full-fledged sea due to its impressive size and the oceanic crust on which it is located. More than a hundred rivers flow into the Caspian Sea, the largest and most important of which is the Volga. It is this that is the main source of power for a reservoir with a drain of 220-225 cubic meters. km. In addition to it, the volume of water in the lake is provided by the rivers Ural, Terek, Emba and Sulak, which together make up 85-90% of the water flowing into the sea.

The Caspian Sea borders with the following countries:

• Kazakhstan.
• Iran.
• Russia.
• Turkmenistan.
• Azerbaijan.

The total coastline of all countries is almost 7.5 thousand km, the main share of which is occupied by Kazakhstan with 2320 km. The water in the sea is really slightly salty. More than 150 species of fish live in the reservoir and the rivers flowing into it.

Deep-sea Baikal

Baikal is considered the deepest lake not only in Russia, but also in the world, with its lowest point at 1642 m. This great lake is the most famous among Russians. Everyone who has been able to visit here speaks about its greatness and beauty. Foreigners often call it not only Baikal, but Great Lakes because of its impressive size. Today, Baikal contains approximately 20% of the planet's fresh water - this is the largest figure on Earth, comparable only to the Amazon River basin. It is part of Buryatia and Irkutsk region.

The volume of Baikal exceeds 23.5 thousand cubic meters. km, and the length of the largest section is 612 km. However, in winter, between January and May, it freezes almost completely. The only exception is a small section of the reservoir about 20 km long. By the end of winter, the ice reaches a depth of a meter, or even two in the bays. There are 27 islands on the lake, the length of one of which exceeds 70 km.

The fauna around the reservoir is unique and has more than 1,500 species, 80% of which cannot be found anywhere on the planet, so many of them are included in the Red Book. Baikal is considered the most environmentally friendly area in the country.

European record holder - Ladoga

Ladoga lake It is considered the largest lake in the European part of Russia and the second largest in the Russian Federation itself after Lake Baikal. It is also the largest lake in Europe, with an area of ​​17,870 square meters. km. The depth of the reservoir is uneven: in the north it is 70−230 meters, and in the south only 20−70. The territory of Ladoga includes more than 500 islands.

The lake is notable for the fact that more than 40 rivers flow into it, and only one flows out - the Neva. Ladoga serves as an important stopping point for birds flying along the North Atlantic route, thereby marking the approach of spring.

For tourists and vacationers, many recreation centers and cottage complexes, e kayaking races are held annually and pro-raid “Ladoga”.

Lake Onega

If you look at the lakes of Russia in detail on a map with names, then the largest of them are located relatively close to each other. Thus, Onego is the second largest lake in Europe, located near Ladoga. The average depth is 30 meters, but in some places it reaches 127 meters. The area is almost 9,700 square meters. km. This is enough to fit small countries like Liechtenstein on it. It belongs to the territory of Karelia (80%), as well as two regions (20%) - Leningrad and Vologda.

Onego was formed as a result of the movement of the Earth's crust and glaciers. Its shores in the northern part are high and rocky, mainly consisting of steely granite covered with forest. In the south, the shores are narrow and sandy, but marshy areas are not uncommon here. There are two ports on the shores - Medvezhyegorsk and Petrozavodsk, as well as 5 marinas and several stopping points. There are about 1,600 small islands on the reservoir with a total area of ​​260 square meters. km.

40 species of fish live here, including trout, smelt, lake salmon, Onega slingshot and others. Some of them are of industrial importance.

Taimyr - the pearl of the north

Among the lakes located in the Asian part of Russia, Taimyr is second in size only to Baikal. The reservoir is located in Krasnodar region, in the central regions of the Taimyr Peninsula. It is the northernmost of the truly large lakes in the world.

The area of ​​the Taimyr basin is 104,300 km2, but despite its size, it is covered with ice from the end of September to July, the ice-free period is an average of 73 days a year. Due to the harsh climate and average annual temperature of -13.4 °C, there is not a single populated area on Taimyr, but now there is an inactive meteorological station there.

Taimyr is one of the cleanest reservoirs in Russia. Many rivers and streams flow into the lake, some of which are mountainous, but only one river flows out - the Lower Taimyr.

Taimyr is famous for the largest population of deer in Eurasia. Other species of animals live here:

• arctic fox;
• wolf;
• argali;
• lemmings.

On the pond you can see northern lights, as well as tourists are attracted here by the celebrations of reindeer herders and the reserve.

Beautiful Hanka

About 97% of the lake is located in Russia, the rest of it falls in the Chinese province of Heilongjiang. Khanka is the largest freshwater body of water in the Far East. Its area, depending on the time of year and changes in water level, ranges from 394,000 to 500,000 hectares, and its volume - from 12.0 to 22.6 km3.

24 rivers flow into Khanka, including the Komissarovka and Ilistaya, and the Sungacha and the Ussuri tributary flow out. The lake is almost 90 km long, and the width in some places reaches 67 km. Khanka is quite shallow, its average depth is 4.5 meters, and the largest is 10.6 meters.

On the Chinese side there is Lake Malaya Khanka, which is separated from the main body of water by a narrow sandy path. Water exchange occurs between the two lakes due to seepage, and then they are connected by a channel.

In 1996, the Russian and Chinese governments agreed to create the Lake Khanka International Nature Reserve. The flora and fauna here are diverse, and since 1976 the area has been designated a wetland of international importance. The banks of the reservoir are wetlands. The lake itself is home to 50 species of fish, including common carp and bluefin. And 327 species of birds were spotted on the shores.

Despite the fact that Hanka has muddy water, it, warming up before the Sea of ​​Japan, attracts many vacationers and those wishing to swim to its coast. Windsurfing competitions are also popular here in spring and summer.

Chudsko-Pskov complex

Lake Peipus-Pskov is the largest transboundary and fifth largest lake in Europe, it is located on the border of Estonia and Russian Federation. The reservoir belongs to the Leningrad and Pskov regions. The area of ​​the lake is 3.5 thousand square km, and the volume is 25 cubic km. The deepest point is 15 m.

The lake complex includes:

• Northern Lake Peipsi (73%).
• South Pskov Lake (20%).
• Middle Warm lake (7%).

30 rivers flow into the reservoir, and one flows out - the Narova. There are about 30 islands on Lake Peipus, and another 40 in the delta of the Velikaya River. Most of them rise only 1-2 m above the water level and are often subject to floods.

The main part of the Russian coast and a number of islands are included in the border zone. There is no border zone on the Estonia side and access to the reservoir does not cause problems.

The complex presents 54 species of coastal aquatic plants, among which the most common are reeds and reeds. The waters of the lake are home to 42 different species of fish. The wetlands are an important passage point for birds migrating towards the Baltic Sea. The region is inhabited by the largest colony of swallows in all of Estonia.

Uniquely blue Uvs-Nur

Uvsu-Nur is the largest lake in Mongolia by area and the saltiest in the country. The reservoir is located on the territory of two states - Russia and Mongolia. The origin of the Russian name was borrowed from the Mongolian "Uvs Nuur" (Lake "Uvs").

The type of reservoir is closed and drainless and is the remnant of a once large sea. The water in it has a high concentration of salt. The basin occupies about 70,000 sq. km. It is in this region that the northern desert and southern tundra meet.

There are approximately 220 species of birds living around Uvs-Nur, many of which use it as a resting and nesting site during migration. The fauna is also rich; the waters of the lake are home to 29 species of fish, only one of which is allowed for human consumption.

Since 2003, the reservoir has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage system. On the territory of the Russian Federation it is located in the Republic of Tyva. The region around it was inhabited several thousand years ago. As evidence of this, many mounds, runes, petroglyphs and other traces remained, proving the residence of once nomadic tribes - the Xiongnu, Kyrgyz and Mongols. The lake is famous for its unique beautiful blue color of water, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Pond Chany

Chany is a body of water constantly changing in size, located in the Novosibirsk region. Although it is little known outside of Siberia, it is one of the largest lakes in the country. It is shallow and its maximum depth reached only 10 m, and the average 2.2 meters. The maximum recorded diameter of Chana's description was 18 km.

The reservoir is located in the forest-steppe natural area. Its banks are low and overgrown with reeds, reeds and bushes, the bottom is sandy and muddy. The lake is slightly saline, with the salinity level in the east being lower than in other places. There are about 70 islands on the territory of Chana, some of which are natural monuments region, as their unique natural landscapes are a wonderful place to live rare species animals and plants. 16 species of fish live here, including perch, pike perch, golden carp and others.

Since 1994, Chany has been included in the list of wetlands of international importance.

Beloe in size is the second (after Onega) natural reservoir in the Vologda region and the third among all (after the Rybinsk reservoir). Moreover, it is included in the list of the ten largest natural European lakes. The average depth of the reservoir is 4 meters, and the greatest is 20. The coastline of White Lake is flat, and there are practically no bays and bays on it; the bottom is muddy and sandy. The contour outline of the lake resembles a shape close to a circle.

The smallest of the large lakes is 43 km in length, and up to 32 in width. The area of ​​the reservoir itself is 1,290 sq. km, and the basin is about 14,000 sq. km. During the year, the region receives quite a lot of precipitation, the average annual amount is 660 mm, with 430 of them falling in the warm season. The thickness of the snow by the end of winter reaches 40−60 cm. In summer there are usually heavy rains, and in autumn there are long continuous rains.

The area between the artificial sea and the lake is a real treasure trove of interesting facts and unsolved mysteries. An example of this is the Ferapontov Monastery with its “miraculous” spring. Hundreds of people come to him and pray for healing from incurable diseases.

The list of lakes in Russia does not end with this top; there are many more interesting places. For example, Dzhukul is the highest lake in the country, located at an altitude of more than 2000 meters in the Altai Mountains.

This article is of a general developmental nature about the largest lakes in Russia. And starting this topic, let's start with the sea - the Caspian.

The largest lake in Russia and in the world it is Caspian Sea. This happens in geographical science - they call it a sea, but it is a lake, etc. The largest lake in Russia and the world is located on the border of Asia and Europe. The coastline is divided between five countries - Kazakhstan, Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan and Turkmistan.

The area of ​​the Caspian Sea is approx. 371 thousand. square kilometers. Maximum depth 1025 meters. The water is salty, as befits the sea. According to one theory, the Caspian got its name thanks to the ancient tribes - the Caspians, who lived on the southwest coast.

Well, now the more expected thing - the story about the largest lakes in Russia continues. The deepest lake in the world. Located in the south of Eastern Siberia. Elevation relative to sea level 455 m. Area of ​​Lake Baikal 31.5 thousand. km2, length 636 km, average width 48 km, maximum reaches 81 km. The volume of water is 23 thousand km3, which is equal to approximately 1/5 of the world's fresh water reserves (excluding glaciers).

The depth of Lake Baikal reaches 1637 m, the average depth is 730 m. It is believed that the lake arose on the site of a tectonic depression that was filled with water. The lake is bordered on all sides by mountain ranges up to 2800 m high and more. The area remains highly seismic.

The shores of the lake are mountainous, covered with coniferous forests and extremely picturesque. It has large bays (,). There are 27 islands on Baikal, 5 of which are periodically flooded. The largest of the islands is Olkhon. Olkhon is visited by tourists so actively that gradually local authorities began to limit the movement of tourists around the island (maybe rightly so).

More than 3 rivers flow into Baikal. The largest of them: Selenga, Barguzin, Upper Angara. But only one river flows from Baikal - the Angara.

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The average temperature in January is –17°C, and in July +16°C, precipitation ranges from 200 mm in the north to 900 in the south. The water in the lake warms up slowly. In summer, only in the bays does it reach 22°C, rarely up to 24°C. A special feature of Lake Baikal is that in the deep layers the water temperature is about 3.2–3.5°C all year round.

Lake Baikal has its own local names for the winds:

• northwestern - sarma,
• northeastern - Barguzin
• southwest-kultuk.

Please note that these names of winds have the same root as the names of the bays of Baikal. Waves raised by winds can reach a height of 5 meters.

The water of Baikal is highly transparent (up to 40 m), has little mineralization and is saturated with oxygen throughout its depth.

The flora and fauna of Lake Baikal include 2,600 species and varieties, 3/4 of which are endemic (Baikal seal, gobies, viviparous golomyanka fish, etc.). There are 50 species of fish. Of these, the commercial ones include omul, grayling, taimen, lake whitefish, perch, sorog, burbot, pike, etc.

The lake is navigable. Baikal water is used to irrigate adjacent lands.

The lake coast is an area of ​​recreation and tourism. The most visited tourist places are the coast and. There are others tourist areas, but you need to understand that most of the coast of Lake Baikal is steep shores, taiga without roads or settlements.

Several reserves have been organized:

• Barguzinsky Biosphere Reserve on the east coast,
• Zabaikalsky national park;
• on the western shores there are the Baikal-Lensky Nature Reserve and the Pribaikalsky National Park;
• on the southern shore - .

Lake Baikal is included in the list of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites. There are also many cultural heritage sites on its shores and islands, as people have lived here since ancient times.

Ladoga lake

Lake Ladoga is also one of the largest lakes in Russia. Located in the north-west of the East European Plain in the territory of Karelia and the Leningrad region. The largest freshwater lake in Europe. Located at an altitude of 5 m above sea level. Previously, the name of the lake was different. In ancient Russian chronicles it was called Nevo.

Area 17.7 thousand km2; maximum depth 233 m, average depth 51 m; water volume 908 km3. Formed in a basin of glacial-tectonic origin.

In the northern part, the shores of the lake are high, rocky, with numerous fjord-type bays and capes. Here, in the northern part, there are the greatest depths. Southern Shores low, swampy, the coastline is relatively smooth.

There are many islands on the lake - 650. Most of them are located in the northern part. These are the so-called Ladoga skerries, a beautiful necklace of islands that are separated from each other by a whimsical labyrinth of straits. Even archipelagos stand out among the skerries. The most famous is the Valaam archipelago, on which stands the ancient Spaso-Preobrazhensky Monastery. Among the large northern islands include Lunkulansaari, Konevets, Mantinsaari, Vossinansaari and others. In the southern part of the lake there are very few islands and they are all small in size. The islands are mostly rocky, made of crystalline rocks.

35 rivers flow into Lake Ladoga, including the Volkhov, Svir, Vuoksa, and only one flows out - the Neva. The water level is not constant throughout the year and fluctuates between 20–100 cm.

It is covered with ice in November-January and breaks up in April-May.

The climate in the area of ​​Lake Ladoga ranges from temperate maritime to temperate continental. The lake itself somewhat smoothes out the climatic characteristics, making the climate in this area of ​​the Northwestern Federal District milder.

The water temperature in summer is not very comfortable for swimming - in July it ranges from 14°C (in the northern part of the lake) to 20°C (in the southern part).

Water is hydrocarbonate class, slightly mineralized (60 mg/l); transparency reaches 7 m (in the northeast).

Lake Ladoga is rich in fish: salmon, trout, whitefish, pike perch, bream, vendace, perch, roach, pike, smelt, sturgeon, eel, etc.

Included in the system of the Volga-Baltic and White Sea-Baltic waterways. In the Middle Ages, the route “from the Varangians to the Greeks” passed here. During the Great Patriotic War, as I hope you know, the “Road of Life” was laid across the ice of Ladoga to besieged Leningrad.

The lake is navigable and is used for water supply to cities and other adjacent settlements, as well as for fishing.

Speaking about the tourist destination, this is the Nizhnesvirsky Nature Reserve in the lower reaches of the Svir River; climatic resort in the city of Sortalava and the ensemble of the Valaam (Spaso-Preobrazhensky) Monastery, founded in the 14th century. on the island of Valaam.

Located in the north-west of the Valdai Hills between Moscow and St. Petersburg, at an altitude of 205 m above sea level. Area 212 km2. There are also many islands on Seliger (160). The lake stretches from north to south for 66 km, from west to east it is up to 37 km wide. The average depth is 5.8 m, the greatest depth is 24 m.

Lake of glacial origin. The coastline is highly dissected. The shores are picturesque, covered with pine forests, with many bays and bays. Most large island- Khachin.

The lake has a complex shape, in the form of several isolated reaches, connected by short channels. The largest reaches are: Ostashkovsky, Polnovsky, Berezovsky, Volokhovshchinsky, Kravotynsky, Sosnitsky and Vesetsky.

110 rivers flow into Seliger, the largest of which are the Seremukha, Soroga, and Krapivenka rivers. The Selizharovka River flows out, which is a left tributary of the Volga. Water mineralization is less than 200 mg/l.

In summer, the water warms up to 19–25°C; transparency 1.0–1.5 m. Freezes from November to April. Fluctuations in the water level in the lake reach 1.5–2.0 m. There are a lot of fish, such as smelt, bream, roach, pike perch, pike, etc.

The northern part of the lake became part of the Valdai National Park. The source of the Volga itself is just a stone's throw away - drive 19 km from the western bank to the village of Volgoverkhovye. On Stolbny Island (south of Khachin Island) you can see the former Nilova Pustyn Monastery (XVII-XIX centuries); in the village of Shirkovo - “Tver Kizhi” (wooden church of the 17th century).

The beauty of this place attracts many tourists. There is also a well-known youth platform for forums, where top officials of the state come. The infrastructure is developed and constantly expanding.

Lake Taimyr

Lake Taimyr, the largest in northern Siberia and one of the largest lakes in Russia. Located in the east of the Taimyr Peninsula, in the Byrranga mountains at an altitude of 5 m above sea level. Geographically, this is the Krasnoyarsk Territory of the Russian Federation. It is part of the Taimyr Nature Reserve. The surroundings of the lake are endless tundra.

The area of ​​Lake Taimyr is very variable depending on the season. So in high water it is 4.6 thousand km2, and in winter 1.2 thousand km2. The depth is 26 m, but the average is only 2.8 m. The volume of water is 13 km 3. It stretches from west to east for 190 km, and reaches 15-20 km in width. There are several large bays: Nestor Kulik, Yamubaykura, Yukayama, Baykuraneru.

It was formed in a tectonic depression, over which ancient glaciers also worked. The soils in the catchment area are tundra and arctic, lying on permafrost. The largest of the rivers flowing into the lake is called Upper Taimyr; The Nizhnyaya Taimyr River flows out. The water level during floods rises to 6 m. Almost the entire year from late September to June, the lake is covered with ice.

Not suitable for swimming - in summer the water warms up to 7°C. In winter, the lake freezes almost to the bottom, the ice thickness reaches 2-3 m. The transparency of the water changes very strongly: in the spring it reaches 25 cm, by the end of summer it increases to 125–150 cm. The water is very soft, the mineral content is negligible - about 30 mg/ l during the flood period.

The lake is home to commercial fish such as Arctic char, whitefish, and muksun.

Lake Khanka

Lake Khanka is located on the border of Russia and Heilongjiang Province of China. Located at an altitude of 68 m above sea level. The lake marks the state border between Russia and China. The largest freshwater body of water in the Far East. Area 4.07 thousand km² (at average water level), length 95 km, prevailing depths are 1-3 m, the greatest - 10.6 m. The volume of water is 18.5 km3.

The lake is located in a tectonic depression. Rain power.

The lake becomes covered with ice in November, and ice breaks up in April. Fish include silver carp, common carp, topgazer, rudd and other species. There are shallow shores where waterfowl nest. The southern coast of the lake and the area in the valley of the Sungacha River are included in the Khanka Nature Reserve.

The water in the lake is very muddy, but despite this there are many who want to relax and swim here. The east coast is low-lying. The depths here increase very smoothly. The soil is fine sand. The west coast, on the contrary, is hilly and there are rocky cliffs. From the western shore the opposite side is not visible and the water area of ​​the lake resembles the sea. At the end of spring and beginning of summer, strong winds blow along the lake, which is why windsurfer competitions are even held.

Russia has many attractions and unique natural sites. And in particular, these are the country’s reservoirs.

Many of Russia's lakes have unique features, some of them are especially deep, while others are inhabited by unique inhabitants. There are also particularly large lakes in the country. And it is precisely them that are worth talking about in this article.

Fifth place - Lake Taimyr

Lake Taimyr is in fifth place in size. In addition to its large area, it also has other remarkable qualities, although even the area is worth talking about separately. It is constantly changing, the lake increases and decreases in size, following its annual cycles. Lake Taimyr is the northernmost lake in the world, and almost always it remains covered with ice - however, in the summer they melt for a short time. The inhabitants of this reservoir are unique; endemic polar fish live here, not found in other reservoirs. It is located in the Krasnoyarsk Territory, and on average its area is 4560 square kilometers. Its depth is small, reaching 27 meters.

Fourth place – Lake Onega

This beautiful lake is located on the territory of three Russian regions. Reaching a depth of 127 meters, this body of water has an area of ​​9,700 square kilometers.. Many rivers carry their waters into this huge reservoir, and the Svir River flows out of it. This is a clean and beautiful lake that tourists come to admire.

Third place – Lake Ladoga

This lake is located on the territory of Karelia and the Leningrad region, like the previous one. In general, these lowland areas have always been rich in water, which is not surprising. Lake Ladoga has a size of 17,600 square meters. meters, with a depth of 230 meters. The Neva River is born from this lake, and more than 30 small rivers flow into it. This lake is abundant in fish, numerous species of which breed so actively that industrial fishing successfully flourishes here to this day.

And besides, it is worth remembering that food was delivered along its ice to besieged Leningrad - along a dangerous, but the only accessible “road of life.” So the reservoir played a huge role in saving people and maintaining life in the besieged city.

Second place - Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal is known for its crystal clear waters. It is the second largest in Russia, has an area of ​​315,000 meters, and is one of the ten largest bodies of water in the world. It is also the deepest in the world, with a depth of up to 1640 meters. Located in Buryatia and Irkutsk region. This lake contains 90 percent of the fresh water reserves of all of Russia. The proud and mighty Angara flows from this lake. Many species, for example, the Baikal seal, live only in this reservoir, and therefore the local nature must be protected. Moreover, the local flora and fauna are accustomed to the exceptional purity of the waters, and it is possible to preserve all aquatic inhabitants only by maintaining these indicators.

Baikal is very interesting natural object, and its enormous depth is not at all accidental. The lake is located on a fault of lithospheric plates, which gradually, centimeter by centimeter, move away from one another. This means that over time the reservoir will only grow, and one day it will turn into a sea, and even into an entire ocean, tearing the continent of Eurasia in half. In the vicinity of the lake, earthquakes occur, albeit small ones, which indicate tectonic activity. And sometimes large areas of land unexpectedly go underground.

The largest lake in Russia

The largest lake in Russia is the Caspian Sea. Many people believe that the Caspian Sea is a sea, because the water in this reservoir is salty. However, a body of water that has access to the ocean is considered a sea, while the Caspian has no outlet. This is a lake that ranks first in area both in Russia and in the world. Five different states surround a huge reservoir, overlooking it and the territory of Russia. Its depth reaches 1025 meters, and its total area is 370 thousand kilometers. Fishing is developed here, and in addition there are oil deposits. The water level in this lake changes, it “breathes”. Many scientists believe that in the past the level was so much higher that the Caspian Sea was connected to the Black Sea, forming a single system and with the drying up Aral Sea. However, later the water level dropped, and the lake became isolated, separated by the Caucasus Range.

There are many lakes in Russia, large and small. Many of them have endemic inhabitants, and some of them are associated with legends. But be that as it may, lakes need to be protected so that they remain clean and beautiful even in these years, when the environment is constantly deteriorating. After all, only then will they be able to preserve not only their natural beauty, but also their fish stock, as well as their recreational qualities. After all, relaxing near any lake is a very special pastime that quickly restores the strength of every person. This includes fishing, swimming, and relaxing on the beach.

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