Lake Hillier Is Bubblegum Pink

Nestled on Middle Island off the coast of Western Australia, Lake Hillier presents a stunning and somewhat mysterious spectacle of nature. First documented by British explorer Matthew Flinders in 1802, the lake's vibrant pink hue was noted in his journal. He described it as "a small lake of a rose color" after ascending the island's highest peak. Early settlers even mined salt from its shores for a brief period in the 19th century. The lake is situated within the Recherche Archipelago Nature Reserve, surrounded by a rim of sand and dense woodland of paperbark and eucalyptus trees.

The science behind the lake's permanent bubblegum-pink color points to a fascinating microscopic ecosystem. The primary contributor is believed to be a species of microalgae called *Dunaliella salina*. This salt-loving organism produces carotenoid pigments, similar to those found in carrots, as part of its photosynthetic process in the highly saline water. Adding to the colorful display are halophilic bacteria, such as *Salinibacter ruber*, and several species of archaea found in the salt crusts, which also produce reddish pigments.

Unlike other pink lakes that can fluctuate in color with temperature changes, Lake Hillier's rosy tint remains constant year-round. Remarkably, the water (Review) retains its pink shade even when collected in a container. Despite its unusual appearance and extreme saltiness, comparable to the Dead Sea, the water is considered harmless to humans. This unique and vibrant natural wonder continues to captivate scientists and visitors alike, best viewed from the air to appreciate its full, striking color against the backdrop of the surrounding greenery and the blue ocean.