Lake Nabugabo

Lake Nabugabo is a small freshwater lake in Uganda.

Location

The lake is in Masaka District, Central Region of Uganda, approximately 23 kilometres (14 mi), by road, east of the town of Masaka.^[2]

Overview

Lake Nabugabo is a satellite lake of Lake Victoria, being only 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) away from its shores.

The area was chosen as a Ramsar Site (protected area) for its importance for the people and animals.

High human population densities and a reliance on subsistence agriculture are reflected in the heavy dependency of the neighboring community on the lake ecosystem. The poor agricultural practices have impacts on the water quality and food production. ^[3]

History

Lake Nabugabo was formed as a result of sand dunes resulting from strong winds. This lake is separated from Lake Victoria by a sand bar. An analysis of a 2.7 metres (8.9 ft) long sediment core collected near the center of the lake showed that Lake Nabugabo was isolated from Lake Victoria about 5,000 years ago.^[4]

Flora and fauna

• Almost 300 plant species have been recorded. The catchment area is home to two endemic flowering plants not found elsewhere, and fourteen species in Uganda are known only in this area. The most striking character of the rare Nabugabo plants is the relative dominance of carnivorous plants.
• Indigenous fish (Cichlidae) is recorded. Three other species were introduced into the lake in the 1950s; the Oreochromis niloticus, Oreochromis leucostictus and Tilapia zillii.
• The fauna ecosystem consists of a wide variety of key animal communities. Hippopotamus and sitatunga are found. Among the birds, kingfishers and crested crane are also found.^[5]
• Lake Nabugabo is an important stop-over point for a number of species of migratory birds.

References

External links

• The Origins of Lake Nabugabo
• Lake Nabugabo Homepage