Papantskvili Lake

Papantskvili Lake (პაპანწყვილის ტბა), whose name translates roughly to “Priest’s Mill Lake,” is a small but picturesque lake located in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region of western Georgia. Situated in the Khobi Municipality near the village of Kheta, it lies within the Kolkheti Lowlands or the adjacent foothills. Unlike many of Georgia’s mountain lakes formed by glaciers or volcanoes, Papantskvili is a karst lake, originating from the dissolution of limestone by underground waters, creating a depression that filled with water.

The lake is relatively small, covering an area of about 3.6 hectares (0.036 km²), and quite shallow, with a maximum reported depth of around 5-6 meters. Its elevation is low, characteristic of the Kolkheti area, likely around 150-200 meters above sea level. Primarily fed by underground karst springs and precipitation, the lake has clear, fresh water and features an outflowing stream that connects it to the local river network, part of the wider Rioni or Khobistskali river basins.

Surrounded by the lush vegetation typical of the Kolkheti region, including deciduous forests and wetland plants, Papantskvili Lake is known for its rich biodiversity. It’s particularly popular among locals as a good spot for recreational fishing, hosting various fish species common to western Georgian lowland waters like carp, crucian carp, and potentially pike or perch. The lake and its surroundings also provide habitat for amphibians, reptiles, and numerous bird species. Due to its accessibility and pleasant natural setting, it’s used for local recreation such as picnics and relaxation.

Identification and Location:

• Name: Papantskvili Lake (პაპანწყვილის ტბა).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
  • Municipality: Khobi
  • Nearest Major Landmark: Near the village of Kheta. Located in the Kolkheti Lowlands/foothills.
  • Coordinates: Approximate coordinates are 42.40∘ N latitude, 41.92∘ E longitude. Verification recommended via map services.
• Relationship to other bodies of water: Karst lake fed by underground springs; has a surface outlet stream connecting to the local river system (likely Khobistskali or Rioni basin).

Physical Characteristics:

• Surface Area: ≈0.036 km2 (3.6 hectares or approx. 9 acres).
• Maximum Depth: Reported as $\approx 5-6\text{ m}$ (approx. 16-20 ft).
• Average Depth: Data unavailable, but likely shallow (perhaps 2-3 m).
• Volume: Data unavailable; relatively small.
• Elevation: Lowland elevation, estimated $\approx 150-200\text{ m}$ above sea level. Confirmation needed.
• Shoreline Length: Short, likely around 0.7-1 km. Often vegetated, potentially marshy areas.
• Water Source(s): Primarily underground karst water (springs), precipitation.
• Outlet(s): Yes, a surface stream flows out.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Karst origin, formed in a depression created by the dissolution of limestone rock.

Ecological Information:

• Flora (Plant Life): Surrounded by lowland deciduous forests (potentially alder, oak, hornbeam) and wetland vegetation. Likely supports abundant aquatic plants like water lilies, reeds, and submerged macrophytes.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Known habitat for various fish species suitable for fishing (e.g., Common Carp, Crucian Carp, possibly Pike, Perch). Supports diverse amphibian populations (frogs, newts), reptiles (like grass snakes), aquatic insects, and attracts various resident and potentially migratory birds.
• Trophic Level: Likely Eutrophic or Mesotrophic, typical for lowland karst lakes with rich vegetation and nutrient availability.
• Water Clarity: Likely moderate to low, potentially affected by aquatic vegetation density and karst spring inputs.
• Water Temperature: Follows seasonal air temperatures of the Kolkheti lowlands. Warms considerably in summer, suitable for swimming. Unlikely to freeze solid for extended periods due to the mild climate and potential spring influence. Currently (late April), water is cool.
• pH Levels: Data unavailable; often slightly alkaline in karst systems.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Data unavailable; may fluctuate seasonally and with depth due to biological activity.
• Unique Ecological Features: Karst lake ecosystem within the Kolkheti biogeographic region. Supports local biodiversity, particularly fish and potentially amphibians.
• Conservation Status: No major specific conservation status widely reported, although karst ecosystems can be sensitive. General environmental regulations apply.
• Invasive Species: Data unavailable.

Human Interaction and Significance:

• Historical Significance: The name “Papantskvili” (Priest’s Mill) suggests historical human activity (likely a mill associated with a priest or church) in the vicinity. The surrounding area has a long history of human settlement.
• Current Uses: Popular local destination for recreational fishing. Used for general recreation such as picnics, nature walks, and relaxation by local residents. Swimming is possible during warm months.
• Environmental Issues: Potential vulnerability to pollution from nearby agricultural activities or settlements due to the interconnected nature of karst groundwater systems. Risk of eutrophication due to nutrient inputs. Potential for overfishing if not regulated. Waste management from recreational visitors.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Likely under the oversight of the Khobi Municipality and regional environmental authorities. Standard fishing regulations apply. Specific conservation measures for the karst system may or may not be in place.
• Local Communities: Provides recreational opportunities (fishing, leisure) for residents of Kheta and surrounding villages. May support very minor local tourism.

Interesting or Unique Facts:

• Its name, Papantskvili, translates to “Priest’s Mill Lake.”
• It is a karst lake, formed by the dissolution of limestone by water.
• Known locally in Samegrelo as a good spot for fishing.
• Located in the relatively low-lying Kolkheti region, making it accessible for much of the year compared to high-mountain lakes.