A wonder of nature: Iran's Pink lake captivates social media

Videos of Lake Maharlu, located in the Fars Province of Iran near Shiraz, are rapidly gaining popularity across social media platforms. This unique body of water captivates travelers and naturalists from around the world thanks to its striking palette, which ranges from soft pink to deep scarlet hues.

The secret behind this unusual phenomenon lies in the biological activity of the single-celled microalgae Dunaliella salina. During the sweltering summer months, when intense evaporation causes the salt concentration in the water to spike, these microorganisms actively produce astaxanthin—a natural pigment belonging to the carotenoid group. It is this organic substance that colors the lake's surface in such fantastic tones.

Maharlu is also remarkable for its shifting nature. In spring and autumn, during the rainy season, the water level rises, and the lake returns to its usual blue-green palette. In the dry season, however, the water recedes, exposing a dazzling white blanket of salt crystals.

As one of Iran's largest saltwater basins, Maharlu serves as a crucial stopover point for migratory birds. It holds special value for pink flamingos, whose staple diet consists of these carotene-rich microalgae. Due to its exceptional ecological significance and rich biodiversity, the area has been declared a protected reserve and remains under strict state protection.