Abano Lake

Abano Lake (აბანოს ტბა – Abanos Tba), officially Abano Lake Natural Monument, is a small yet remarkable mineral lake within the Truso Valley, Kazbegi Municipality, in Georgia’s Mtskheta-Mtianeti region. Positioned at a high elevation around 2130 meters in the Greater Caucasus, this unique water body is defined by the continuous bubbling across its surface. This activity results from carbon dioxide (CO2) degassing from underground mineral springs that feed the lake. The lake itself is shallow and covers a very small area, encircled by alpine meadows. Distinctive yellowish-orange mineral deposits, precipitated from the mineral-rich waters, fringe parts of its shoreline. As a protected Natural Monument and an easily observed natural wonder within the scenic and geologically significant Truso Valley, known for its historical sites and travertine formations, Abano Lake is a frequently visited spot by those exploring the valley.

Identification and Location:

• Name of the Lake: Abano Lake (აბანოს ტბა – Abanos Tba); Abano Mineral Lake; Abano Lake Natural Monument.
• Location:
  • Country/Region: Georgia, Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, Kazbegi Municipality.
  • Specific Location: Within the Truso Valley, Greater Caucasus Mountains.
  • Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Truso Valley, Keterisi village ruins, Zakagori Fortress ruins, Kazbegi (Stepantsminda).
  • Coordinates: Approximately 42.588∘N,44.422∘E.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: Fed by underground mineral springs. A small stream exits the lake, joining the Terek (Tergi) River which flows through Truso Valley.

Physical Characteristics:

• Surface Area: Small, approximately 0.004 km2 (0.4 hectares).
• Maximum Depth: Shallow, generally less than 1 meter deep.
• Average Depth: Very shallow.
• Volume: Very small.
• Elevation: Approximately $2127$ meters above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Short, approximately 250-300 meters.
• Water Source(s): Primarily underground carbonated mineral springs; also receives precipitation and surface runoff.
• Outlet(s) (if any): A small surface stream flows out of the lake.
• Water Type: Freshwater, but heavily mineralized (carbonated).
• Basin Geology: Situated in a valley influenced by regional volcanic activity (Kazbegi volcanic area) and river processes. The lake basin is directly associated with the emergence of mineral springs and related travertine deposition from Upper Jurassic carbonate rocks.

Ecological Information:

• Flora (Plant Life): Surrounded by alpine meadows. Aquatic vegetation in the lake is sparse due to the constant bubbling and mineral content. Characteristic orange/yellow mineral deposits (travertine, containing iron compounds) are prominent around the edges.
• Fauna (Animal Life): The mineral composition and active CO2 degassing limit aquatic fauna diversity. The lake is fishless. It supports some specialized microorganisms or invertebrates adapted to these conditions. The surrounding valley hosts typical alpine fauna. Due to CO2 accumulation near the surface in calm weather, small animals venturing close can suffocate.
• Trophic Level: Unique classification due to high mineral input; biological productivity is low.
• Water Clarity: Moderate to low clarity due to bubbling and suspended mineral precipitates.
• Water Temperature: Cool due to altitude, potentially slightly influenced by the geothermal source of the springs. Varies seasonally with air temperature.
• pH Levels: Acidic due to dissolved CO2 forming carbonic acid.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Variable; can be low in areas of intense CO2 bubbling.
• Unique Ecological Features: Active, visible degassing of carbon dioxide (bubbling). Formation of significant travertine mineral deposits. Fed by highly carbonated mineral springs.
• Conservation Status: Designated as a Natural Monument of Georgia. Located within the Kazbegi Protected Areas system.
• Invasive Species: None known.

Human Interaction and Significance:

• Historical Significance: Situated in the historically important Truso Valley, known for past settlements, defensive towers, and the traditional use of its mineral waters.
• Current Uses: Primarily a natural tourism attraction. A popular stop for sightseeing and photography within Truso Valley. Not suitable for swimming, fishing, or water supply due to its characteristics.
• Environmental Issues: Fragile mineral deposits are vulnerable to damage from foot traffic. General tourism impacts in the valley (waste, trail erosion) are concerns. Long-term changes to spring activity from geological or climatic factors could alter the lake.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Protected as a Natural Monument under the Agency of Protected Areas and Kazbegi National Park regulations. Management focuses on visitor education and minimizing environmental impact.
• Local Communities: Benefits tourism operators and related businesses in the Kazbegi area. The Truso Valley itself has very few year-round residents.

Interesting or Unique Facts:

• The lake is famous for the constant “boiling” effect on its surface caused by CO2 gas release from underground springs.
• Distinctive yellowish-orange travertine deposits create a unique visual landscape around the lake.
• It holds the status of a protected Natural Monument of Georgia due to its specific geological and hydrological features.
• It is one of the most easily accessible and visually unique natural phenomena within the Truso Valley.