Tbikeli Lake

Tbikeli Lake (ტბა ტბიყელი) is a stunning glacial lake nestled high in the Meskheti Range mountains within the Kintrishi Protected Areas, located in the Adjara region of Georgia (Kobuleti Municipality). Situated at an elevation of around 2000 meters or more, this pristine mountain lake is renowned not only for its remote beauty but primarily for its significant ecological value. It serves as a crucial habitat for the Caucasian Newt (specifically Triturus vittatus ophryticus), an endemic amphibian species of regional importance. Formed in a glacial cirque, Tbikeli is relatively small in surface area but surprisingly deep for its size. Fed by snowmelt, rain, and underground springs, it is the source of the Kintrishi River, which flows through the protected area’s unique Colchic forests. Accessing Tbikeli Lake requires a challenging multi-day trek through difficult terrain, making it a destination primarily for dedicated hikers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts seeking wilderness experiences. Its location within a strictly protected area underscores its importance for biodiversity conservation.

Identification and Location

• Name: Tbikeli Lake (ტბა ტბიყელი).
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Adjara
  • Municipality: Kobuleti Municipality
  • Nearest Landmark: Located within the Kintrishi Protected Areas (Kintrishi Strict Nature Reserve / National Park), high on the Meskheti Range. Accessible via strenuous hiking trails often starting from villages like Tskhemvani or Khino.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41°44′ N latitude, 42°01′ E longitude.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: It is the source lake for the Kintrishi River.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Small, typical for a glacial tarn; often cited as being less than 0.1 square kilometers (around 1-2 hectares).
• Maximum Depth: Relatively deep for its size, with sources often mentioning depths of around 20-25 meters (approx. 65-82 feet).
• Average Depth: Specific data not widely available, but significant given the maximum depth.
• Volume: Small overall volume due to limited surface area.
• Elevation: High altitude, approximately 2000-2200 meters (approx. 6560-7220 feet) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Short, reflecting its small area.
• Water Source(s): Primarily snowmelt, precipitation, and likely groundwater/springs within the cirque basin.
• Outlet(s): The source of the Kintrishi River.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Glacial origin, located in a cirque (a bowl-shaped depression carved by a glacier).

Ecological Information

• Flora (Plant Life): Limited aquatic vegetation due to cold temperatures and depth. Shoreline vegetation consists of subalpine meadows, rhododendron thickets, and plants adapted to high-altitude conditions. Surrounded by the unique forests of the Kintrishi Protected Areas at lower elevations along the access trails.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Most notable inhabitant is the Caucasian Newt (Triturus vittatus ophryticus), for which the lake is a key breeding habitat. Other amphibians might be present. Fish are absent. The surrounding protected area is rich in fauna, including brown bears, roe deer, various birds (including raptors and Caucasian Grouse), reptiles, and invertebrates characteristic of the Meskheti Range and Colchic ecosystems.
• Trophic Level: Likely Oligotrophic or Mesotrophic, with relatively low nutrient levels typical of high-altitude glacial lakes.
• Water Clarity: Generally high, reflecting its pristine condition and limited sediment input.
• Water Temperature: Cold year-round. Remains very cold even in summer and is covered by ice and snow for a significant portion of the year (often until June/July).
• pH Levels & Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Specific data not readily available, but expected to be suitable for the resident newt population.
• Unique Ecological Features: Key habitat and breeding site for the endemic Caucasian Newt. Source of the Kintrishi River. Pristine high-altitude glacial lake ecosystem within a protected area.
• Conservation Status: Located within the Kintrishi Protected Areas (Strict Nature Reserve/National Park), affording it a high level of protection. The Caucasian Newt is listed in the Red List of Georgia and relevant international conservation lists.
• Invasive Species: Highly unlikely due to remoteness, harsh conditions, and protected status.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: No specific major historical events are known to be associated with the lake itself. The surrounding mountains and forests have traditional uses by local communities.
• Current Uses: Primarily scientific research (focused on the newt population and alpine ecosystems) and eco-tourism (challenging hiking/trekking destination). Fishing is prohibited (and impractical due to lack of fish and protected status). Not used for drinking water, irrigation, or power.
• Environmental Issues: Relatively untouched due to difficult access. Potential threats are long-term climate change impacts on snowpack/temperature affecting the sensitive ecosystem and the newt population, and minimal impacts from trekkers (waste, campsite disturbance) which need careful management.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by the Agency of Protected Areas under the regulations of the Kintrishi Protected Areas. Access is often regulated or requires guides/permits. Focus is on preserving the natural state and protecting the endemic newt.
• Local Communities: Primarily relevant through connection to the Kintrishi Protected Areas, potentially benefiting from regulated tourism (guiding, accommodation in nearby villages).

Interesting or Unique Facts

• Famous as a primary habitat for the endemic Caucasian Newt.
• It is the source of the Kintrishi River, which flows through a biologically diverse protected area.
• Access involves a challenging multi-day trek, often considered one of the more difficult hiking routes in Adjara’s protected areas.
• Remains covered in snow and ice for a large part of the year due to its high altitude.
• Offers spectacular views of the surrounding Meskheti Range peaks from its high-altitude basin.