Madatapa Lake

Madatapa Lake (მადათაფის ტბა) is a high-altitude lake located in the Ninotsminda Municipality of Georgia’s Samtskhe-Javakheti region, close to the border with Armenia. Situated at over 2100 meters above sea level on the Javakheti Plateau, it holds the distinction of being the highest among the larger lakes in this unique volcanic landscape. Like nearby Khanchali Lake, Madatapa is relatively shallow despite its considerable surface area, making it a vital wetland ecosystem. It forms a core part of the Javakheti Protected Areas, specifically designated as the Madatapa Managed Reserve. The lake is internationally recognized as a Ramsar site (Wetland of International Importance), primarily due to its critical role as a breeding and staging ground for numerous water birds, most notably supporting significant populations of the globally threatened Dalmatian Pelican. Fed by snowmelt, local streams, and groundwater, its water levels exhibit seasonal variations. The lake’s ecosystem includes rich aquatic vegetation and is known for its fish populations, particularly the Paravan Common Carp, making it an important local fishing site. Conservation efforts aim to protect its unique biodiversity and manage human activities like fishing and grazing sustainably, balancing ecological needs with local community use.

Identification and Location

• Name: Madatapa Lake (მადათაფის ტბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Samtskhe-Javakheti
  • Municipality: Ninotsminda Municipality
  • Nearest Landmark: Located on the Javakheti Plateau near the Armenian border. Villages such as Sameba and Zhdanovi (Zhdanovakani) are in the vicinity. It is part of the Javakheti Protected Areas.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41°11′ N latitude, 43°46′ E longitude.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: Fed by several small rivers and underground springs. The Madatapa River flows out of the lake, connecting it to the Bughdasheni River and subsequently the Paravani River system.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Approximately 8.8 square kilometers (about 3.4 square miles, or 885 hectares).
• Maximum Depth: Shallow, typically around 1.5 to 1.7 meters (about 5-5.6 feet).
• Average Depth: Very shallow, estimated at around 0.8 to 1.0 meter (about 2.6-3.3 feet). Some sources cite 1.5m.
• Volume: Relatively small for its surface area due to shallowness. One source estimates 97 cubic km, which seems disproportionately large for the area and depth, likely an error.
• Elevation: High altitude, situated at approximately 2108 meters (about 6916 feet) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Characterized by gentle slopes and marshy areas, length varies with water level.
• Water Source(s): Fed by snowmelt, rainfall, groundwater, and inflow from small streams.
• Outlet(s): The Madatapa River.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Located in a basin of tectonic-volcanic origin on the Javakheti Plateau.

Ecological Information

• Flora (Plant Life): Features diverse aquatic and wetland vegetation (hydrophytes), including reedbeds and submerged plants (like Potamogeton, Polygonum amphibium, Myriophyllum), providing habitat and food for wildlife. Surrounding areas include boggy meadows and mountain steppe. Specific rare plant communities like certain sedge associations (Cariceta) typical for Javakheti may be present.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Crucial habitat for water birds (over 200 species recorded in the wider area). Especially known for breeding and staging Dalmatian Pelicans (Pelecanus crispus). Also supports Great White Pelicans, Common Pochard, Common Crane, Velvet Scoter, Sociable Lapwing, and a wide variety of other ducks, geese, coots, and waterfowl during migration and breeding seasons. Rich in fish, notably the Paravan race of Common Carp and Gibel Carp (introduced). Mammals like the European Otter (Lutra lutra) and Marbled Polecat (Vormela peregusna) may inhabit the area. Supports typical amphibian, reptile (e.g., Darevsky’s Viper nearby), and invertebrate populations for the region.
• Trophic Level: Often described as Eutrophic (nutrient-rich) due to shallowness, nutrient inputs, and high biological productivity. Note: One study mentioned Oligotrophic, which contrasts with most descriptions focusing on high productivity and vegetation; Eutrophic seems more consistent.
• Water Clarity: Variable, potentially reduced by sediment suspension and algal growth.
• Water Temperature: Exhibits significant seasonal variation, freezing over completely during the long, cold winters (approx. November-April). Water temperature in summer around 17-18°C.
• pH Levels: Likely alkaline.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Subject to fluctuations, especially under ice cover or within dense vegetation.
• Unique Ecological Features: Highest elevation among the large Javakheti lakes. Key habitat for Dalmatian Pelicans. Designated Ramsar site. Important fish spawning grounds. Part of the Javakheti wetland system along the African-Eurasian bird migration flyway.
• Conservation Status: Designated as Madatapa Managed Reserve (IUCN Category IV) within the Javakheti Protected Areas. Ramsar Convention site #2435. Several bird species found here are listed in Georgian and international Red Lists (IUCN, AEWA).
• Invasive Species: Gibel Carp (Carassius gibelio) is an introduced species present since the mid-1990s.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Surrounding plateau historically used for grazing. The lake area is within one of the most earthquake-prone zones in the Caucasus.
• Current Uses: Primarily conservation and biodiversity protection. Significant local importance for fishing (especially Paravan Common Carp, though fishing regulations apply). Potential for regulated birdwatching tourism (birdwatching towers exist). Not used for drinking water supply, major irrigation, or power generation. Camping is possible in designated areas.
• Environmental Issues: Vulnerable to water level fluctuations. Potential impacts from agricultural runoff and overgrazing in surrounding areas leading to eutrophication. Sustainable management of fishing activities is crucial. Illegal hunting and disturbance to wildlife are potential threats. Climate change impacts on water regimes and habitats are a concern.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by Georgia’s Agency of Protected Areas. Subject to regulations associated with the Managed Reserve status and Ramsar designation, focusing on habitat preservation, biodiversity monitoring, and sustainable use (fishing regulated by technical regulations).
• Local Communities: Provides resources like fishing grounds and grazing areas (managed). Conservation efforts and potential tourism offer opportunities and require engagement with local villages (Sameba, Zhdanovakani, Epremovka, Troitskoye). Nearby Gorelovka village is known for Doukhobor culture.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Holds the title for the highest elevation among the major lakes of the Javakheti Plateau.
• Renowned as one of the most important breeding and staging grounds for water birds in Georgia and the Caucasus region.
• Its significant population of Paravan Common Carp makes it a notable fishing destination locally.
• Designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2020.
• Freezes completely during winter, offering a starkly beautiful, snow-covered landscape sometimes referred to as part of the “Georgian Arctic”.
• Despite its ecological importance, it was historically considered fish-free, possibly due to harsh winters, before carp introductions in the late 20th century.