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Sasthamkotta Lake
Site Name | Sasthamkotta Lake |
---|---|
State | Kerala |
Ramsar Site Number | 1212 |
Ramsar Designation Date | 19 Aug 2002 |
Area | 373 hectares |
Latitude | 9.03333 |
Longitude | 76.6167 |
Categories | Inland wetland Permanent freshwater lake |
Elevation min / max | 33 / 33 |
Listed in Montreux Record? | No |
Spans over more than one country? | No |
Details | |
The largest freshwater lake in Kerala state in the southwest of the country, spring-fed and the source of drinking water for half a million people in the Kollam district. Some 27 freshwater fish species are present. The water contains no common salts or other minerals and supports no water plants; a larva called "cavaborus" abounds and eliminates bacteria in the water, thus contributing to its exceptional purity. The ancient Sastha temple is an important pilgrimage centre. WWF-India has been of great assistance in preparing the site's designation. | |
Threats | |
Pollution, Household sewage, urban waste water, Agricultural and forestry effluents, Human settlements (non agricultural), Housing and urban areas, Agriculture & aquaculture, Annual and perennial non-timber crops |