Lake Baikal is Earth's oldest and deepest lake

Lake Baikal in Siberia is the oldest lake on Earth, estimated to be 25 million years old. It is also the deepest lake, reaching about 1 mile deep, and is biologically diverse, hosting unique species like the Baikal seal. Unlike many lakes formed by glaciers, Lake Baikal is a rift lake, created by two continental plates moving apart. This geological process allows it to remain open and deepen over millions of years. Researchers study Lake Baikal's sediments to understand its age and evolution. The lake's unique ecosystem supports many endemic species, making it a significant site for studying biodiversity and evolution.