Who discovered Lake Victoria. Lake Victoria in central Africa. Ecological situation on the lake

Lake Victoria is a vast natural body of fresh water - the largest lake by area on the African continent. It is rich in flora, fauna and many species of exotic animals.

The local population calls it “Nyanza”, which literally means “big water”. The world map shows that the lake is located in the eastern part of Africa and is included in the territory of three states: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

Lake Victoria is located in eastern Africa along the equator. Tourists are attracted by various types of flowers and fish, as well as unique nature reserves. Visitors will not be left indifferent by the beautiful natural landscapes. Lake Victoria is a great place for professional fishermen, but it is a dangerous activity.

After all, there is a possibility that fishermen could become prey, since the lake is rife with crocodiles. Thanks to this, hunting tours for extreme sports enthusiasts have been created. Some animal species are on the verge of extinction due to frequent hunting activities.

Many tourists are attracted by the unique nature reserves that are formed around the lake. You can see their location on the map. Lake Victoria has endemic species of animals and plants. Its waters are home to a special species of lang fish, which, according to scientists, lived here about three hundred million years ago. It is impossible to find lang fish anywhere in the world.

Among the reserves there is a particularly famous park; its area is inhabited by more than half a thousand species of birds. The park is located on Rubondo Island. The island provides an opportunity for scientists to study various species of animals in the natural environment. There is a chance of meeting the Sitatunga antelope in the park.

Most visitors want to visit the island to meet the unique beauty of the animal. The antelope is attracted to lakes and marshy areas. Only walking is allowed in the park; driving is prohibited, in order to preserve nature.

Saanane Island is located in Tanzania, it is the smallest national park in this city. Also Mgingo Island, which is popular for fishing.

You can get to Lake Victoria by plane to the airport in the city of Mwanza or by train. Next, it is better to get to the lake shore by car or taxi. This will add up to about half an hour's drive.

It is advisable to visit national parks from November to March. During this period, on the islands of the southwestern part the climate becomes humid, and tropical downpours begin. Thanks to this, the area acquires beautiful wildflowers and more than 30 species of orchids.

Origin of Lake Victoria and its name

Until 1920, the lake was called Victoria Nyanza. The lake was then named by an English traveler in honor of Queen Victoria. Due to the fact that the lake borders three states, it goes by several names. In 1960, there were proposals by countries to give the lake one name. But there was no final decision.

Study and development of Lake Victoria

The lake was discovered by the English traveler John Henning Speke. It was he who gave the name to the lake. The development of the lake took place on July 30, 1858. John Speke suggested that the reservoir originates from the Nile. After Henry Stanley's expedition returned, John Speke's claim was confirmed.

History of Lake Victoria

According to scientists, the reservoir arose due to the formation of the Eduard and Albert depressions. Their location was in the fault zone in eastern Africa. This happened in the middle of the Anthropocene period. The place where the watercourse originated was facing east, on a plateau trough. A large reservoir was formed, the volume of which was considered enormous.

Physiographic characteristics of Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is read as a relict lake. The shores of the lake are swampy, heavily indented, low and flat. Victoria has beautiful sandy beaches. For example, the shores of Saanane Island are mostly rocky, but there are also gently sloping areas. Around the lake there are savannas, to the north-west of the coast there is an equatorial forest with a humid climate.

Depth of Lake Victoria

In some places, the transparency of the lake can reach up to 8 m. Thanks to the large number of islands and bays, a variety of underwater landscapes are created: sandy soils, rocky screes. Lake Victoria exceeds the size of the Sea of Azov, which is why it is often called the sea.

During periods of strong hurricanes, bays and bays provide shelter for ships. According to scientific research, it is believed that Lake Victoria had a larger area than it does today. At that time, the lake covered the entire area of Uganda. Its eastern coastline bordered Lake Rudolph. It is not uncommon for the water level on Lake Victoria to fluctuate.

A large amount of water rise was noted in 1961-1964. The length of the coastline is more than 7000 km. The height above sea level is 1134 m. The area of the lake is more than 68 thousand km2. The greatest depth of the reservoir is 80 m. The length is more than 300 km and the width is more than 200 km. The average depth of the lake is 40 m.

Lake Victoria is significantly different on the world map; it is larger in area than most lakes. The lake has numerous islands, the largest of which are the islands of Kome, Ukerewe, and Mansome.

Climate

The climate is equatorial-tropical. There are two rainy seasons a year. Due to the large amount of water in the lake, the climate is moderated within a radius of about 80 km. There is a decrease in air dryness and temperature.

Seasons are distinguished by the amount of precipitation. There are periods of heavy rainfall in the summer, leading to flooding, and in the winter there is less rainfall. There may be no precipitation during the month during the winter period.

In summer, about 1700 ml can be poured out almost every day. precipitation. This often happens during the tropical rainy season. In April and May, precipitation occurs more often - these are especially rainy months.

In one month, Lake Victoria receives approximately 250 ml of water. The air temperature very rarely drops below +26 °C. The water temperature of the upper layer can heat up to +24 °C. As a rule, there is no frost or snow in this area.

Hurricanes and tornadoes are possible, so the lake is considered one of the most dangerous places in the world. In addition, the territory of Lake Victoria has a large number of poisonous insects. Due to the hot climate, a large volume of water evaporates, but there is no shallow water body.

The enormous evaporation is offset by tropical rainfall. The climate is very changeable; hot weather can be replaced by cold and wet wind within a day. This is due to the fact that the lake is located above sea level.

Precipitation in millimeters from 1956 to 1978:

Flora and fauna

Reeds, papyrus, and banana palms are often found on the coast. The most common plants are: acacia, mimosa, cypress.

Lake Victoria on the world map has picturesque islands. Hippos, flamingos, and Venetian cranes live here. This is where some species of fish are found that can live in an aquarium. There are more than 300 thousand species of aquatic inhabitants in the lake, of which species are known that do not live anywhere else.

The lake is inhabited by fireback, crimson, and representatives of the cichlid family. They differ in one feature - when danger approaches, the fry tend to hide in the female’s mouth. When the danger has passed, they swim out. The lake is home to an unusual species of fish called protoptera.

The fish is distinguished by the fact that it can breathe not only with gills, but also with lungs. The island is home to various species of exotic butterflies. A variety of venomous snakes can be seen here, so it is advisable to have a guide.

In the Rubondo Nature Reserve you can find green monkeys, hippopotamuses, porcupines, rhinoceroses, elephants, chimpanzees, mongooses, and giraffes. A variety of birds decorate the lake shores in a variety of bright colors.

Varieties of birds can be found here: storks, eagles, cormorants, royal kingfishers, ibises. New species of fish appear in the lake. About 5 species were found that differ in their color.

The lake is home to Nile perch, which can reach up to 1 m in length. The presence of hippopotamuses in the lake sometimes leads to the death of people. The weight of the animal varies from 1.5 to 4 tons, so it can easily overturn a boat.

Flowing rivers

The rivers that flow into the lake bring about 18% of the water.

Some rivers flowing into Lake Victoria and their characteristics:

The Kagera River is the main river that flows into the reservoir from the east, its length is more than 30 km.
Nzoia, about 250 km long, is located in Kenya, is an important natural resource, and has many waterfalls.

Ecological state

The ecological state of Lake Victoria is in great danger. This is happening due to the rapid cutting down of trees along the entire coast. In addition, the population along the coast is increasing. Due to global warming, the amount of precipitation is decreasing - this is another reason for the reduction in the volume of water in the lake.

Due to the fact that the shores of Lake Victoria are gradually populated by people, the environment is suffering

More than 40% of the fish disappears, because the enterprises drain dirty water, as well as sewage water from local settlements. The bottom of the lake is polluted with various wastes and chemicals. During periods of heavy rain, some of the fertilizer is washed off from the fields and pollutes Victoria. To increase the number of fish, Nile perch was introduced into the reservoir, then many fish in the lake disappeared.

This damage was enormous and largely irreparable. In addition, water lilies brought to Africa harmed the lake and their inhabitants. Water lilies are very resilient and have strong reproduction.

In 1990, the fish population in the lake greatly decreased, the reason being water lilies, which absorb large amounts of oxygen. Also, their antennae block the inflow and outflow of water, and this complicates navigation.

During the 20th century, the level of phosphorus in Lake Victoria doubled due to the proliferation of Nile perch, as well as overcrowding and deforestation. Perhaps this is what led to the emergence of cyanobacteria, which causes the destruction of fish.

The Owen Falls dam allowed the water level to rise to 3 m. Environmentalists warn that within 60 years all aquatic life may die due to the entry of harmful chemicals into the reservoir. Local residents, as well as some organizations, participate in the conservation of the reservoir. Experts recommend reducing fishing and chemical pollution of the lake.

How Lake Victoria is used

The majority of the local population grows coffee, bamboo and cotton. There are several ports on the coast of the lake, and shipping is active. Residents of Africa use the fresh water of Lake Victoria. Water transport is well developed here, and large ports are organized.

Near Africa there is a large deposit of gold and diamonds. Nile perch is well purchased for the European population, at an expensive price. The local population is engaged in fishing; fish processing takes place in factories near the coast of Lake Victoria.

Recreational resources of Lake Victoria

Thanks to the construction of a power plant on the shore and basin of the lake, the lake's hydro resources are visible. The leakage of Lake Victoria occurs in a village located in the city of Uganda. About 12 thousand years ago, the White Nile was located in this area.

This section of the river has broken through a dam made of rocks and rocks. In 1952, a power plant was created. Engineers have improved this natural dam and reservoir. In 2002, a second power plant was organized. According to research by hydrologists, it was revealed that a large leak of water through power plants led to a huge change in the water level in the reservoir.

Lake Victoria has the bulk of fresh water. It is considered one of the largest freshwater bodies of water on the entire planet.
According to geologists, it is believed that the lake dried up several times.
More than 34 million live around the lake. The area of Lake Victoria is comparable to the territory of Ireland.
The history of Victoria begins about 400 thousand years ago.
Due to the lake being infected with schistomatosis, swimming in it is prohibited.
There is a fly on the shore of the lake that infects people with sleeping sickness.
In this area it is possible to become infected with yellow fever or malaria.
Lake Victoria has more than 2000 islands.

Despite the deteriorating ecology and reduction in heavy rains, the lake preserves unique species of animals. A visit to this place will allow you to enjoy the picturesque nature and meet rare ichthyofauna. On the world map you can see all the rivers flowing into Lake Victoria. Some of them have beautiful waterfalls.

Article format: Vladimir the Great

Video about Lake Victoria

Travel to Lake Victoria:

Now it is difficult to imagine why the famous traveler and explorer of Africa John Henning Speke, who discovered a huge freshwater lake in Tanzania in 1858, decided to name it in honor of Queen Victoria, the then ruler of England.

However, in the Aboriginal language it was called even more simply, Nyanza, which actually meant “lake”. Initially, the geographer put it on the map under a double name, Victoria Nyanza, but subsequently (after 1920) the prefix was canceled.

It is noteworthy that to this day the authorities of the independent states of Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda are engaged in an ongoing debate about assigning one of the more sonorous local names, but have not come to a consensus. However, the name of the lake is not the main subject of interest of John Henning Speke; his goal was to find the source of the great Nile River, which he successfully did, presenting evidence that it was the Victoria Nile River flowing from it that gave rise to the subject of research. Subsequently, his data was confirmed by the equally famous reporter and traveler Henry Stanley.

Unfortunately, today it is a huge lake, located in the northern part of the East African Plateau, and is characterized by an area of 68,000 km. sq., serves as the most convincing evidence of the destructive impact of humans on the environment. After Victoria began to be intensively developed in every imaginable way, including gold and diamond mining, deforestation, industrial fishing and fish farming, the construction of a hydroelectric power station and the transformation of the lake into a reservoir, it lost its original, very complex ecosystem, and naturalists are inclined to think that that it is no longer possible for a person to restore it.

Previously, the lake was home to a huge number of fish of different species, but now their number (according to various estimates) has decreased by approximately five times. The fate of the unique protoptera fish, which has been preserved since prehistoric times, is questionable: it is able to breathe with both gills and lungs.

In the area of the lake there are unique reserves in which there are huge populations of native animals: crocodiles, elephants, boas, rhinoceroses, antelopes of various breeds (including the unique swamp sitatunga) - a complete list of all animals, birds, insects and fish takes several pages.

Such a unique ecosystem was formed not only due to the special climate, but also to the rarest combination of natural zones: savannas are adjacent to wetlands, in the north-west the evergreen equatorial forest approaches the shores closely. Unlike other lakes, Victoria is very densely populated: the estimated number of people living along its coast is 30 million, making

Description of the lake

Victoria (English: Lake Victoria) is a lake in East Africa, in the territory of Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Located in the tectonic trough of the East African Platform, at an altitude of 1134 m. It is the 2nd largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Superior and the largest lake in Africa by area. It is also the largest among tropical lakes.

The lake was discovered and named in honor of Queen Victoria by British traveler John Henning Speke in 1858.

Lake basin Victoria in East Africa was formed as a result of the arching uplift of the surrounding land.

The coastline is very winding, forming numerous bays, bays, capes, and peninsulas. Bays and bays are convenient for mooring ships and are protected from the winds. Crocodiles and hippos live in bays and river mouths. Papyrus, reeds, and reeds grow in abundance along the coast. There are many inhabited islands in the lake. The largest are Ukerewe, Sese, Mansome, Ruvondo, Kome. The shores of the lake are flat, often swampy, with lush thickets of papyrus. There are areas of tropical forest, in some places you can see cotton fields, coffee plantations, and banana palm groves. The southwest coast looks different. Here, close to the lake, a plateau-like hill approaches the water with steep slopes.

Photo: Lake Victoria. Photographer: Oliver M. GRUER-LAVIN

The lake is fed by the waters of numerous rivers flowing from the surrounding mountains. These are mostly small watercourses. Among them, only the deep-flowing Kagera stands out, which is considered to be the source of the Nile. The water horizon fluctuates slightly throughout the year, within 20-40 centimeters. But the range of secular level fluctuations reaches 2-3 meters. Periodically there are large rises caused by exceptionally heavy rainfall. This was the case, for example, in the last quarter of the last century and in 1961-1964.

Lake Victoria climate

The lake, with its enormous mass of water and vast surface, has a beneficial effect on the climate, softening it over a radius of up to 80 kilometers. It moderates the high temperature of the air and reduces its dryness. Lake Victoria has the shape of an irregular oval; its major axis extends from southwest to northeast for almost 350 kilometers, the length of its minor axis is 200 kilometers. The greatest depth of the lake is 80 meters, the average is 40 meters.

The differences between the seasons are only in the amount of precipitation. In winter there are few of them. Sometimes for months not a single drop falls from the sky. But in the summer there are often real floods! Almost every day, streams of water fall to the ground from the depths of heaven - the season of tropical downpours begins. 1500-2000 millimeters of precipitation per year are brought by humid monsoon winds. April and May are especially rainy; in each of these months the lake receives 200-300 millimeters of heavenly moisture - as much as it falls in the arid regions of the globe throughout the year. Under the influence of the sun's heat, huge masses of water rise into the atmosphere.

If we count this water “flying” into the sky, we get a very impressive figure - 93 cubic kilometers per year. This is more than the volume of water that the Nile carries into the sea per year, and slightly less than two annual flows of the Dnieper. Lake Victoria is a huge tropical natural cauldron that turns a gigantic mass of water into steam. It is interesting to see how the water cycle occurs in the future. The fact is that the lake basin is always filled with water, which means that the colossal amount of moisture evaporating from the surface of the reservoir is somehow replenished. And with interest! Meteorologists are good at counting the heavenly gifts falling to the earth - rain and snow. They determined that 98 cubic kilometers of precipitation falls on the water surface of the lake. Passing over the lake, air currents capture water vapor and are therefore greatly saturated with it.

They carry some of the moisture outside the lake, but return more to it with rain and downpours. Precipitation is the first source of income, and the second source is the tribute of tributaries; all of them together annually pour 16 cubic kilometers of water into the huge basin. This means that the lake receives 114 cubic kilometers of water per year; of which, as we have already said, 93 cubic kilometers evaporate into the atmosphere. Where does the remaining moisture disappear to? This water flows into the Victoria Nile River. It flows along its bed for a long time, connecting with the waters of the Nile tributaries, irrigates fields, rotates the turbines of the Aswan hydroelectric power station and finally ends up in the Mediterranean Sea.

Ecology of Lake Victoria

The ecological state of the lake is in serious danger due to the intensive growth of the local population, clear deforestation along the entire coast, an overdeveloped fish export industry, the appearance and establishment of exotic plants and animals and, as a result, the disappearance of more than 50% of local fish (previously only perch species -mottled there were about 400), hypertrophied growth of algae and the discharge of untreated wastewater from enterprises and sewage water from coastal settlements.

In order to increase the fish population, Nile perch was released into the waters of the lake, which led to the disappearance of many species of local fish. The damage caused is enormous and largely irreparable. The traditional communal way of life with its appropriative economy on the lake has been destroyed and is gradually disappearing. Naturalists agreed that if urgent measures are not taken to save the lake, it will die.

In addition to eutrophication and increasing wastewater discharge, water lilies are also responsible for the intense drying of the lake. These freshwater plants, characterized by their extraordinary durability and intensive reproduction, were brought to Africa at the beginning of the 20th century as decorations. Since then they have been spreading intensively. In the late 1990s, water lilies caused a sharp decline in fish numbers in Lake Victoria because water lilies absorb significant amounts of oxygen from the water. In addition, their tendrils and leaves block the inflows and outflows of water from the lake, complicating fishing and navigation. OSIENALA monitors the spread of water lilies and takes immediate action if their numbers increase.

Due to falling water levels in Lake Victoria, in early 2006, a representative of the UN's International Strategy for Disaster Reduction reported that a Ugandan hydroelectric power plant was consuming more water from the lake than provided for by the relevant international treaty , signed 50 years ago.

In the middle of greater Africa lies Lake Victoria. Three states are located around it: Kenya, Tanzania and Kganda. The area of the most beautiful body of water in Africa occupies 68 thousand sq. km. Its width is up to 275 km, and its depth is no more than 80 meters.
It was discovered by the English traveler D. Spica in 1858. He gave the lake its name in honor of Queen Victoria. Sometimes Victoria is called the sea. It is the third largest freshwater lake in the world. Length 350 km width 20 km. There are a lot of peninsulas, capes and various bays along the coast. There are also islands that are even given names. Many millions of years ago it occupied a much larger area. The lake is quite alpine and is located at an altitude of 1135m above sea level. The average water temperature in the year is not lower than +22. April and May are considered the rainiest. In winter, precipitation is minimal. Tributaries also bring large amounts of water into the lake.
The fauna and flora are characteristic of the African continent. There are a lot of fish that are not found anywhere in the world.
Victoria is of great importance to the three countries as a center of fishing, shipping and trade.
A very difficult situation has developed around the lake in ecological terms. Large discharges from enterprises and wastewater from human activity. The ecological situation around the lake seriously worries the world community. All life in the lake may die in the next 50 years, environmentalists say. There are killer algae in the lake that release toxins, which in turn kill the fish. The reason for this phenomenon is organic waste.

The most beautiful and picturesque lake with islands floating on it is Lake Victoria. Lake Victoria is also the largest lake in Africa by area, located at an altitude of 1134 m above sea level and occupies a vast basin of an ancient reservoir. The Kagera River, which is considered the source of the Nile, flows into the lake, and the Victoria Nile River flows out. On the shores of the lake, huge granite boulders are piled up, reaching the size of a 3-4 storey building; they do not provide shade at noon, since the lake is located on the equator, where twice a year the sun is at its zenith at noon.

The shores of the lake are swarming with many crocodiles waiting for their prey, but travelers are attracted to Lake Victoria by the legend of local residents about a terrible monster that lives in the reservoir and which they often encountered. This monster is evil, it chases fishermen’s boats and tries to overturn them, someone even saw the huge head of this creature.

Abstract on the topic:

Plan:

1Geographical location
2Fauna and flora
3Ecological situation
4Lake protection organizations

Notes

Introduction

Coordinates: 1°04′00″ S latitude 32°52′00″ e. long / 1.066667° S latitude 32.866667° e. d. (G) (O) (I)-1.066667, 32.866667

Victoria(Victoria-Nyanza, Ukerewe, English. Lake Victoria, Victoria Nyanza, Swahili Ziwa Victoria, Viktoria Nyanza, Ziwa Nyanza) is a lake in East Africa, in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. Located in the tectonic trough of the East African Platform, at an altitude of 1134 m. It is the 2nd largest freshwater lake in the world after Lake Superior and the largest lake in Africa by area. It is also the largest among tropical lakes.

The lake was discovered and named in honor of Queen Victoria by British traveler John Henning Speke in 1858.

Lake basin Victoria in East Africa was formed as a result of the arching uplift of the surrounding land.

1. Geographical location

Area 68.870 thousand km², length 320 km, maximum width 275 km.

It is part of the Victoria Reservoir. Many islands. The high-water Kagera River flows in and the Victoria Nile River flows out. The lake is navigable; local residents fish on it.

The northern coast of the lake crosses the equator. The lake, with a maximum depth of 80 m, is a fairly deep lake.

Unlike its deep-sea neighbors Tanganyika and Nyasa, which lie within the African gorge system, Lake Victoria fills the shallow depression between the eastern and western sides of the Great Gorge valley. The lake receives a huge amount of water from rain, more than from all its tributaries.

30 million people live in the vicinity of the lake. On the southern and western shores of the lake live the Haya people, who knew how to grow coffee long before the arrival of Europeans. Main ports: Entebbe (Uganda), Mwanza, Bukoba (Tanzania), Kisumu (Kenya), near the northern coast of Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

2. Fauna and flora

Its waters are home to a huge number of crocodiles, and the lang fish, which lived here 300 million years ago, still lives here. She can inhale and hold air in her gills, like in her lungs. This rare fish is a link between ordinary fish and land animals.

On the territory of the lake there are famous nature reserves and national parks. The most interesting is the Rubondo Island National Park (450 sq. km). The unique thing about Rubondo is that you cannot travel here by car (in order to preserve the environment). And this allows you to see animals from a closer distance while walking than in a jeep.

There are no predators on the island; the flora and fauna of Rubondo are extremely rich and diverse. The combination of dense forest, savannah, woodland and swamps created ideal conditions for a wide variety of animals. Some of which are unique. For example, sitatunga is found in Tanzania almost exclusively on the island of Rubondo. The sitatunga is an extraordinary antelope that lives in the swamps. She is extremely funny, her hooves are especially interesting - they are very elongated (10 cm) and widely spaced, like palm leaves. In addition, elephants, rhinoceroses, giraffes, saber-horned antelopes, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, fat bollards, chimpanzees, green monkeys, porcupines, mongooses, pythons that can swallow a small antelope, mambas, cobras, vipers, butterflies and numerous birds live here: ospreys, eagles, goliath herons, ibises and kingfishers.

3. Environmental situation

Due to the drop in water levels in Lake Victoria, in early 2006, a representative of the UN Disaster Reduction Organization ( UN's International Strategy for Disaster Reduction) reported that the Ugandan hydroelectric power plant is consuming more water from the lake than is stipulated by the relevant international treaty signed 50 years ago.

4. Lake protection organizations

The partner organization of Living Lakes on Lake Victoria is OSIENALA ( Friends of Lake Victoria Society), a non-profit community organization that is registered in Kenya, but is also active in Tanzania and Uganda. Its 150 members are fishermen, peasants, squads, naturalist circles, communities, non-governmental organizations and scientific institutes of the region.

OSIENALA is currently working to alleviate poverty among Kenya's 4 million Aboriginal people and seeks to strengthen the capacity of neighborhood and tribal communities to organize themselves into self-monitoring and self-protection of the environment in their region. Currently, the “offspring” of the Society of Friends of Lake Victoria has been founded - the international organization ECOVIC - Organization of East African Communities for the Management of Lake Victoria Resources.

Notes

Kravchuk P. A. Records of nature. - Lyubeshov: Erudite, 1993. - 216 p. ISBN 5-7707-2044-1.

Lake Victoria and the Great Rift Valley

Increasing population density around Lake Victoria

Local languages around Lake Victoria

Fluctuations in lake level height

Lake Victoria is located in the very center of Equatorial Africa. It occupies the regions of three states: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. The area of the most picturesque lake on the African continent is about 68 thousand km². Its maximum width reaches 275 m, and its average depth does not exceed 80 m.

The credit for the discovery of the picturesque lake belongs to the English traveler D. Speke. While exploring East Africa, in July 1858 he came to the shores of a huge body of water, which the locals called Nyanza (“big water”). Speke decided to give the lake a different name. He named it after the English Queen Victoria. The largest lake in Africa also has a third, no less poetic name - Ukreve. The lake lies in a giant tectonic trough that formed on the East African platform. This is one of the high mountain lakes. It is located at an altitude reaching 1134 m above sea level.

Lake Victoria is often called the sea. Indeed, the size of Victoria exceeds the area of even such fairly large bodies of water on our planet as the Aral and Azov Seas. In addition, it is rightfully considered the third largest freshwater lake on the globe. In terms of area, it is second only to the Caspian Sea and Lake Superior, which is part of the group of American Great Lakes. However, it is not only its size that allows us to classify Lake Victoria as an inland sea. The navigation conditions and balance of Victoria's waters are most characteristic of the sea.

And yet Victoria is one of the largest lakes in the world. It is filled with fresh water, while sea water contains a large amount of dissolved salts. Only this circumstance turned out to be decisive when scientists struggled with the question of which group of reservoirs to include Victoria: whether it was a lake, or an inland sea. The issue was resolved in favor of the first.

According to the outline of the shores, the lake resembles a giant oval of irregular shape. Its length from southwest to northeast reaches 350 km, width – 200 km. Basically, its banks are low and swampy, with the exception of the southwestern ones. Their basis is an elevated plateau. Sharply falling high cliffs meet lake water here. It seems as if they, like a giant stone shield, are protecting the coast from the onset of the water elements. There are especially many bays, bays, capes and peninsulas. They are the main elements that make up the coastal landscape. During periods of terrible storms and hurricanes, bays and bays become the only refuge for ships crossing the lake. There are many large and small islands here.

The largest of them are Ukerewe, Sese, Mansome, Ruvondo and Kome. Archaeologists and geographers have been able to find evidence that several million years ago Lake Victoria occupied a much larger area. Scientists were able to calculate the age of this reservoir. It turns out that the lake bowl was formed back in the Tertiary period, and by the onset of the wet Quaternary period the lake had increased significantly. At that time it occupied the territory of the modern state of Uganda. Moreover, its eastern shores bordered the coastline of Lake Rudolf.

The surface of the lake is dominated by all types of winds that form over the African continent. This is an open lake, raised by volcanic and tectonic processes to a fairly high altitude. In addition, its low banks do not pose a serious barrier to the winds. Even mountain slopes and passes are not able to protect the lake from strong gusts of wind. The movement of air masses is what causes storms and hurricanes. Due to frequent storms and tornadoes born above the surface of the water, the lake is currently recognized as one of the most dangerous (from the point of view of navigation) bodies of water on earth.

Over the course of several million years, a special climate has formed on the coast of Lake Victoria. The sweltering heat here is combined with high levels of air humidity, and prolonged tropical downpours are often followed by long periods of drought. Travelers who come here usually complain about countless poisonous insects. A fairly common occurrence in these parts are various diseases, the carriers of which are the same insects.

On the Victorian coast there is no division of the year into spring and summer. There is no snow or frost here. The average air temperature rarely drops below +25°C. At the same time, the average annual water temperature is at least +22°C. The change of seasons of the year is determined by the amount of precipitation. So, during the winter season there is a minimum number of them. It is not uncommon for there to be no rain at all for several months. But with the arrival of summer, columns of water literally fall from the sky onto the coast. At the same time, tropical downpours, flooding everything around, can continue for several days. April and May are considered especially wet. In just these two months, the water level in the lake increases by 400–600 mm. Wet monsoon winds are also a kind of source of nutrition for the lake. Every year they bring up to 1500–2000 mm of precipitation.

Because the Victorian coast has a hot climate and strong winds, much of the rainfall evaporates. Scientists were able to calculate the volume of moisture returning to the sky. It turns out that up to 93 km3 of water evaporates from the surface of the lake every year. This value slightly exceeds the volume of water that the Nile carries into the sea during the year, and is only slightly less than two annual water flows on the Dnieper. However, despite such a large amount of evaporating water, Victoria is never shallow.

This phenomenon is explained by the special nature of the water cycle occurring above the surface of Victoria and the coastal area adjacent to the lake.

Experts have determined that up to 98 km3 of precipitation falls within the surface of the lake. Winds forming over Victoria pick up water vapor, which is concentrated in air currents. The winds carry part of the moisture to other parts of Africa, and the rest returns to the lake, falling in the form of precipitation.

But not only precipitation is the source of nutrition for the lake. Victoria's tributaries bring large quantities of water. According to scientists, the total volume of water brought by the rivers is 16 km³. Thus, together with precipitation, the lake receives up to 114 km³ of moisture. At the same time, as mentioned above, 93 km³ of water evaporates from the surface of Victoria. The remaining 21 km³ of moisture enters the Victoria Nile River and then heads towards the Mediterranean Sea, being fed by Nile tributaries along the way.

Annual fluctuations in water levels in Victoria cannot be considered significant. The average indicators of such fluctuations are only from 20 to 40 cm. However, the most significant for the water balance of Victoria are changes in water levels observed over several centuries. Such secular fluctuations often reach 2–3 m. In addition, quite serious rises in water level periodically occur on Lake Victoria. The largest of these phenomena were observed at the end of the 19th century, as well as in the period from 1961 to 1964.

The fauna and flora of the Victoria coast are typical of the African continent. Plants such as papyrus, reeds and reeds have become a worthy decoration of the coast of Victoria, and banana palms, growing in abundance on the coast of Victoria, have long become a kind of symbol of the African continent. Local residents in some areas grow cotton and coffee on separate plots.

The numerous bays of the lake and the mouths of nearby rivers are home to hippos and crocodiles. Locals call them "mamba". These are huge and strong animals. The body length of individual individuals is often 5–6 m. Fishing has been developed on Lake Victoria for a long time. For numerous fishing tourists, the African reservoir seems to be a real fishing paradise. According to scientists, up to 100 different species of fish live in the lake. Moreover, most of them are not found anywhere else except in the waters of the lake. The species composition of birds living on the coast is no less diverse. Often the shores of Victoria are painted in a variety of colors of the rainbow - millions of birds gathered in huge flocks. Here you can see flamingos, crowned cranes, various types of herons and other birds.

Like many other areas of our planet, the ecosystem of the coast of Lake Victoria was also on the verge of destruction by the middle of the 20th century. The number of rare and endangered species of plants, animals and birds has increased. By now, even such an animal as a rhinoceros has become quite rare on the lake coast. It is exterminated in large quantities by local hunters, hoping to get money for rhinoceros horns, which are used in the manufacture of medicines.

The number of leopards on Victoria's shores has declined sharply in recent decades. Compared to the beginning of the 20th century, giraffes, elephants, lions and hippos are now rarely seen here.

The largest port city in Tanzania, located on the coast of Victoria, is Mwanza. It is connected to the main industrial areas of the country by several railways and roads. Various goods arrive from Tanzania to other African states located on the shores of Lake Victoria. The main items of trade are locally produced products: sisal, sorghum, meat and wool. It must be said that not far from the port are the main deposits of gold and diamonds in East Africa. The export of precious metals and stones constitutes the main source of income for the country's budget. In addition, Mwanza is considered the main transit point for the transportation of products and goods entering Tanzania by sea (the country is washed by the Indian Ocean).

The largest port on the northern coast of Victoria, in the state of Uganda, is the city of Entebbe. Products and goods delivered to the port are then loaded onto cars, which transport them to the capital of the state, Kampala.

Kissima is considered the largest port in Kenya. The railways transport a variety of goods from the industrial interior to the ocean port of Mombasa across the lake.

Lake Victoria is of great importance for the three African countries not only as a center of fishing, shipping and trade. Lake water is the main supplier of hydro resources and relatively cheap electricity. Victoria's power is used to irrigate fields and also power the turbines of a power plant called Owen Falls. The power plant supplies light to all areas of Uganda, as well as many parts of Kenya.

The construction of a dam on the lake caused a slight rise in the water level. However, modern scientists have been able to find ways to regulate the flow of lake water.

Lake Victoria

Page 5

The main lake port in Kenya is Kisu-mu, a city with a population of more than 30 thousand inhabitants - Africans and Indians.

Kisumu is a significant economic center in western Kenya and an important communications hub: lake routes meet here with railways and highways. Situated inland in Kaviron-do Bay, Kisumu is a center for textile industries, fishing, ship repair and small shipbuilding.

...So, fishing and shipping are the most important areas of economic use in Victoria. But it is also used for water supply – so far mainly for domestic purposes. Victoria provides water and livestock farming in adjacent areas. But the huge reserves of fresh water of this inland sea are still poorly used for industrial water supply: there is still little around industrial enterprises. There is no doubt that as the economies of East African countries develop, the water resources of the giant lake will be used more and more widely, primarily in industry.

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Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is one of the seven African Great Lakes located in the Rift Valley of the East African Rift. The area of the reservoir is 68.8 thousand square meters. km. This is the second largest freshwater lake in the world. In first place is Lake Superior in North America with an area of 82.1 thousand square meters. km. But among the tropical lakes of the planet, the African reservoir takes first place. In Africa it is also considered the largest. But in terms of volume of fresh water (2750 cubic km) it only reaches 9th place.

The length of the lake is 337 km. The width is 250 km. The maximum depth is 83 meters, and the average depth is 40 meters. The reservoir is located at an altitude of 1133 meters above sea level. The length of the coastline is 4828 km. It is divided between three countries: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. All figures are taken from the US Gazetteer.

Lake Victoria

The coastal strip around the lake is considered one of the most densely populated on the planet. More than 30 million people live here. The equator passes through the northern part of the lake. The city of Entebbe is located right on it. The capital of Uganda, Kampala, is located 40 km southeast. It is home to 1.2 million people. In the south of the reservoir is the city of Mwanza with a population of 1.2 million people. It belongs to Tanzania. On the west coast is the city of Bukoba with a population of 100 thousand people. And in Winam Bay in the northeast is the Kenyan city of Kisumu. It has 345 thousand inhabitants.

Concerning geological history, then Lake Victoria is considered relatively young. Its age is estimated at 400 thousand years. The reservoir periodically dried up and was filled with water again. According to experts, there were 3 such cycles. The last time the lake dried up was 17,300 years ago. Refilled with water 14,700 years ago. This is associated with ice ages, during which the amount of precipitation sharply decreased. But it is the rains that feed the lake 80% with water, and only 20% comes from tributaries.

Lake Victoria on the map

There are a lot of tributaries feeding the reservoir. The main one is considered Kagera River. Its length is 420 km. It flows into a vast reservoir from the east, but its main attraction is that the river is considered the source of the great African Nile River. Actually, Kagera has its own tributary, Rukarara. It is from its source that the waterway is calculated, ending in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

In the north, the Victoria Nile flows out of Victoria, which further downstream is renamed the White Nile, and then, after the confluence of the Blue Nile, a single water stream is formed, bearing the name Nile. The second major river flowing from the lake is called Katonga. It rushes its waters to the west and after 220 km flows into Lake George in Uganda, which is connected by the Kazinga Canal to Lake Edward.

The Nzoya River also flows into the reservoir. Its length is 257 km. It is an important waterway in Western Kenya. There are many waterfalls on it, which means great energy potential. Lake Victoria itself contributes to the production of electricity. energy through a dam near the city of Jinja in Uganda. This is where the Victoria Nile River flows out of the lake. But the water level in the reservoir is very capricious and unpredictable, so the hydroelectric power station does not operate at full efficiency. In addition, there is an opinion that the hydroelectric station takes more water than was provided for in the agreement between the states.

These are the ships that sail around Victoria

Water transport on a huge reservoir it is well developed. Since the early years of the 20th century, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya have been connected by ferries. In 1963, the fastest ferry built in Kenya was launched. In 1966, a train ferry was created between Kenya and Tanzania.

But the achievements of civilization sometimes bring grief to people. On May 21, 1996, the ferry Bukoba sank in the lake. It carried passengers between the Tanzanian cities of Bukoba and Mwanza. The ship was designed for 430 passengers and 850 tons of cargo. The tragedy occurred 56 km from Mwanza. The ferry sank to the bottom at a depth of 25 meters, killing 987 people. The main cause of the accident was vehicle overload. This tragedy is considered one of the largest in Africa.

People board the ferry between Mwanza and Bukoba

Lake Victoria was discovered in 1858. Humanity owes this to the British officer John Hennig Speke (1827-1864). He reached the southern coast while exploring Central Africa. Seeing a huge expanse of water in front of him, the Englishman named it in honor of Queen Victoria. The officer also stated that he had finally found the source of the Nile, as he believed that the great river flows from this huge reservoir. But this statement caused disagreement among his partner Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890). All this gave rise to long discussions.

These days, any schoolchild knows that John Speke was right.

The Nile actually flows from Victoria, and the huge reservoir also provides food and work to the huge number of people who live on its banks. The picture is darkened only by the merciless lake pollution. Industrial enterprises discharge untreated wastewater into it. The lake bed serves as a burial place for chemical fertilizers and household waste. All this negatively affects the ecosystem. The situation is aggravated by the decrease in water level in the reservoir. So the prospects are not bright, and life on the shores of Victoria is hard and difficult.

Yuri Syromyatnikov

Lake Victoria is one of the most striking natural attractions in Africa, no less famous than Mount Sinai, Colored Canyon, Cameroon Volcano or Lake Chad. Victoria is the largest freshwater body of water on the black continent and the second in the world after one of the American Great Lakes - Lake Superior.

The outlines of the banks resemble a huge oval of irregular shape.

Its surface area is about 68,000 square kilometers, in some places the depth of the lake reaches 80 meters.

It is in this lake that the most majestic African river, the Nile, originates.

Where is Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the natural border between Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.

There are a significant number of Aboriginal people in the coastal areas - according to various sources, from 30 to 35 million people. Local residents have a different name for this place - Nyanza, which means “big water”.

In 1858, this reservoir was discovered by the famous English explorer John Speke, who named it in honor of the British queen.

The lake and its surroundings are very popular among hunting and fishing enthusiasts. These waters are home to more than 100 species of fish, including rare ones such as Nile perch.

This is also the only place in the world where fossil lang fish, which lived on Earth 300 million years ago, have been preserved. This unique species is considered a transitional link from fish to land animals, as it has an amazing respiratory system, which includes both gills and lungs.

Hunting and fishing

Fishing on Lake Victoria is a fascinating activity, but quite dangerous. These waters are simply teeming with crocodiles, so that an unwary fisherman can turn into prey himself.

By the way, hunting tours for crocodiles and hippos are one of the most extreme local entertainment offered to tourists.

There are several famous nature reserves and national parks around the lake.

One of the most popular places among tourists is park on Rubondo Island, home to several hundred bird species and dozens of animal species. Flocks of colorful tropical birds “paint” the coast in all the colors of the rainbow - perhaps there are few places in the world where you can observe such a fantastic spectacle. In the park you can see elephants, rhinoceroses, giraffes, mongooses and many other exotic animals.

The special pride of the park is the population of Sitatunga antelopes, distinguished by their unique grace and beauty.

No less interesting is the Ruma National Park - a great place to observe wild animals in their natural habitat.

Within the lake there are numerous islands, both quite large and small. Some of them are inhabited by people, they have conditions for accommodating tourists.

Landscapes of fabulous beauty, romantic canoe trips on the lake, the opportunity to watch rare animals or study the life of local fishermen - such a vacation is perfect for those who are looking for peace and quiet.

One of the most unique islands here is Mgingo Island. The island is famous for its excellent fishing and has a very original history. For a long time, Mgingo was uninhabited - residents of the coastal areas believed that an evil spirit lived on the island.

In the early 90s of the last century, one of the local shamans performed a ritual of exorcism, and two daredevils, Kenyan fishermen, settled on the island. Soon other fishermen began to settle on the island, attracted by the excellent catches. Currently, about 130 people live on Mgingo. Catching the expensive Nile perch allows fishermen to earn up to $200 a week, which is considered a lot of money by local standards.

Due to the fact that the island is a disputed territory, local residents are forced to pay taxes to the treasury of both Kenya and Uganda.

At the same time, the islanders consider Mgingo a free republic, have their own government and live in a friendly community according to their own laws. The worst punishment for violating these laws is expulsion from the island.

The lake also has its own legends. According to one of them, Lukwata lives near the island of Rubondo - a mysterious monster that from time to time rises from the bottom of the lake and takes away the prey from the fishermen.

Of course, the mysterious Luquata is not as popular as its “colleague” from Loch Ness, and yet thousands of tourists come to these parts every year in the hope of meeting a strange creature.

On the coast there is no clearly defined division of the year into seasons. The air temperature stays around 25°C all year round, and the water temperature rarely drops below 22°C.

The change of seasons in these places is determined by the amount of rain. Spring and summer are the time of tropical showers, so the best time to visit Victoria is considered to be November-February.

Photos

Our planet is amazingly picturesque and diverse. It captivates travelers with its wonderful reservoirs, mighty rocks, and spacious plains. In Africa and the USA there is a wonderful lake - Victoria. If we consider the first area, it occupies three large stretches of land: Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. It covers each of the regions and in total is 68 thousand square kilometers. Its width is 275 km, and its depth is no more than 80 meters. The lake was first found and explored in 1858 by traveler Speke. He decided to name his discovery himself and notify the authorities about it. As you know, the lake began to be called Victoria (in honor of the English queen). It is considered highland, as it is located in a tectonic trough, and is also located at an altitude of 1134 m above sea level.

Interesting information

Lake Victoria has long been considered a sea. All this is due to the enormous size and depth of the waters. It occupies the third position in size among freshwater lakes and has the shape of a giant irregular oval. The length is 350 km, and the width is on average 200 km. Sometimes there are wetlands, less often - crystal clear ones. Along the perimeter there are rocks that drop off sharply and create the impression of a giant shield. Lake Victoria is full of headlands, bays and peninsulas. They connect perfectly, flow into each other and create indescribable landscapes. Ships that cross the lake usually hide in bays during storms and bad weather. The climate here is very unique; it has been formed over many years. It can be swelteringly hot one day and damp and cold the next. Gusts of wind always shake the waters, even huge rocks and capes are not able to protect against this. By the way, the lake was recognized as one of the most dangerous in the world.

Lake in the USA

Lake Victoria (USA) is located east of Michigan. It was discovered by the French and is replete with islands. Its area is 59,600 square kilometers and its depth is 229 meters. According to legend, many ships sank and are stored in the lake. It is perfect for snorkeling and diving and attracts thousands of tourists every year. In the freshwater body of water, among all the islands, Manitoulin is considered the main and largest.

Lake in Africa

It should be noted that Lake Victoria (Africa) has nothing in common with the American one. Its area is 68 thousand square kilometers, depth - 80 meters. It is navigable, has a large variety of fish, and its coastline crosses the equator. The only similarity with the US lake is the presence of various islands. It flows into the Kager River and fills the depression between the eastern and western sides of the Great Gorge valley. Thanks to partial rains, the water is constantly replenished and enriched with essential microelements. The lake is home to crocodiles and lang fish (a rare species that lived about 300 years ago). She is able to breathe and trap air in her gills, like in her lungs. Such water inhabitants are considered very rare and at the same time the pride of local residents. Lake Victoria in Africa is the second largest in the world, compared to other freshwater lakes.