Lake Razelm

Lake Razelm, also known as Lake Razim, is a significant freshwater lagoon located on the Black Sea coast in Romania. Positioned south of the renowned Danube Delta, it forms part of the Delta’s World Heritage Site and is recognized as Romania’s largest liman, or coastal lagoon. The lake extends over an impressive area of 511 square kilometers, making it a notable geographical feature in the region.

Geographic and Ecological Features

Lake Razelm is a part of a larger complex of limans and lagoons, which collectively span approximately 1,000 square kilometers. This complex is divided into two distinct subgroups. The northern subgroup comprises Lake Razelm and Lake Golovița, connected by a channel that is about 3.1 kilometers wide. On the other hand, the southern subgroup consists of several saltwater lakes. Lake Razelm itself covers around 400 square kilometers of this complex.

The ecological dynamics of Lake Razelm underwent significant changes in the late 1970s when the Razelm/Golovița system was isolated from the Black Sea. This isolation led to a substantial reduction in the lake’s salinity levels, extending its refreshment time to over a year. Additionally, the lake experienced episodes of eutrophication, impacting its ecological balance.

Despite these environmental challenges, Lake Razelm continues to be an essential habitat for diverse species. In the 1960s, three families of cockles were recorded in Romania, but now only two are found in Lake Razelm, albeit at reduced densities. Popina Island, located at the northern end of the lake, serves as a vital refuge for various bird species and invertebrates. Recent ecological assessments suggest that the Razim-Sinoie lagoon system, which includes Lake Razelm, is close to achieving a good ecological status as per the standards of the Water Framework Directive.

Human Settlements and Activities

The area around Lake Razelm is dotted with settlements, including the notable village of Sarichioi. The lake’s proximity to the Black Sea and the Danube Delta enhances its appeal as a destination for ecological tourism, bird watching, and scientific research. The interaction of fresh and saltwater ecosystems in the region presents unique opportunities for studying ecological transitions and conservation efforts.