Have you come across a lake which is pink in colour? It sounds unbelievable but it does exist in Australia. The lake constitute salt and report says the colour occur as a result of perfect mix of high temperatures, sunlight and low rainfall. One aspect of the lake is that it has the ability to change colour every year with season.
Throwing more light on the amazing phenomenon, Parks Victoria (managers of the park where the lake is situated) said algae growing in the salt crust at the bottom of the lake produces the red pigment, known as beta carotene, as part of its photosynthesis process and in response to the extremely high salt levels.
One Dr Mark Norman, Parks Victoria chief conservation scientist said: “It’s completely natural,” we often get comments that it looks like an industrial accident of pink paint.” Dr. Norman also said although the water is not dangerous, swimming is not recommended. “It’s so salty and muddy on the bottom that you would come out looking like a frosted rum ball, especially when you dried,”
The authorities however warned people not touch the water but ‘enjoy the views.’ The lake was expected to return to its natural colour (blue) when the weather is relatively cool and rainfall increase. The lake is located in Melbourne, below the Westgate Bridge.
We wonder how the scenario would have been like in Ghana when people wake one morning to find out their lake has turned to pink. Indigenes will instantly ascribe superstition to it. Hmmmm Africa!
