In Port Melbourne, Westgate Park's salt lake is now a fabulous shade of pink.
Highlights
- Melbourne's Westgate Park lake turns a stunning bright pink colour
- Natural phenomenon caused by high temperatures and salt levels
- Lake will return to normal colour when rainfall increases during winter
New Delhi:
After pink water flowed from the taps of a Canadian town, an Australian lake has now turned pink. In Port Melbourne, Westgate Park's salt lake is now a fabulous shade of pink instead of the customary blue. Unlike in Canada, where potassium permanganate contamination led to the change in colour, this lake turning pink is a natural phenomenon. "Westgate Park's salt lake has turned pink again this season: a natural phenomenon in response to very high salt levels, high temperatures, sunlight and lack of rainfall. Algae growing in the salt crust at the bottom of the lake produces the red pigment (beta carotene) as part of its photosynthesis process and in response to the extremely high salt levels," says a statement on the Parks Victoria Facebook page.
However, lovely as it is, the view should be enjoyed from a distance.
"Enjoy the views, but we recommend you don't come into contact with the water," says the statement.
The lake is expected to return to its normal colour when rainfall increases during the winters. The beautiful view provided by the pink waters, however, has been a godsend for shutterbugs. People have been flocking to the lake to click pictures, and social media has been abuzz. We compiled the most beautiful results for you to see:
What do you think of the curious pink lake? Let us know using the comments section below.