Monolake, an unique ecosystem. by Hedepo

Photography • Landscape • posted on Oct 01, 2007

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Description

Monolake, an unique ecosystem. On our way from Mammoths-lake to Yosemite NP we made a stop at Monolake. It was 10 years ago that we have been around the lake, and a lot had changed because the water table had increased by 10 feet!!! The water is loaded with salts and is very “tasteful” Uuuuuuuhhhhhh., but creates very nice white crystals on the plants around the lake. (The white plant on the photo is not an IR effect!! LOL) Mono Lake and the its basin together create a one-of-a-kind ecosystem. The high salinity of a terminal lake is a condition under which freshwater fish can not survive, but brine shrimp do, in large numbers. Alkali flies feed off of the same algae as the shrimp, and both connect the food chain as prey for the birds and ducks that migrate over and live at the lake. Tufa are created by calcium carbonate, or lime, deposits. They are formed when freshwater mixes with the lake water, which can occur anywhere. Tall towers are found where underwater springs cause lime to form on contact. In areas where the lake waters have receded, you can walk up to these abandoned towers. For more info see w.w.w.Monolake.org Thanks for viewing, Henk

Comments (17)

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Fred255

2:09PM | Mon, 01 October 2007

Super POV very well done!

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brycek

2:14PM | Mon, 01 October 2007

Fantastic capture..need to visit here sometime!!

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GiMi53

2:47PM | Mon, 01 October 2007

Never heard about this extra-ordinary place... there are such fantastic and incredible natural beauties in the USA... I'm happy that you and Deanne enjoyed the trip; thank you for sharing such great images, Henk !

Charberry

3:04PM | Mon, 01 October 2007

Excellent image! This does look extraordinary. ;o)

MrsLubner

3:08PM | Mon, 01 October 2007

I once heard a legend that Mono Lake was made from the Indians' Tears. It is a strange place. Great shot!

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rainbows

3:17PM | Mon, 01 October 2007

It is a superb shot, Henk. Love the look of this silver lakeside vegitation. The water rising a foot a year has to be of great concern... Beautiful work. Diane.

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