The scientific world is trying to solve the mystery of the striking color changes that lakes exhibit at different times of the year.

The colors of the three side-by-side crater lakes located on Flores Island can turn blue, green, or red at completely unexpected moments. Despite scientific research, the exact cause of this fascinating change has still not been clarified.

Rising on Indonesia's Flores Island, Mount Kelimutu draws attention with the three separate crater lakes at its summit. Both the local people of the region and scientists are trying to solve the mystery of the striking color changes these lakes exhibit at different times of the year. The fact that each lake takes on color in a different way and at a different time makes this natural wonder even more interesting.

THE SCIENTIFIC WORLD IS INVESTIGATING THE REASONS BEHIND THE PHENOMENON

According to local beliefs, these lakes are known as sacred areas where the souls of the deceased gather. The fact that each of the lakes is attributed a separate meaning reinforces their mystical atmosphere. The scientific world, on the other hand, is trying to shed light on the reasons behind the different colors that occur in the lakes, such as blue, green, red, brown, or black.

According to observations made by scientists, the main reason for the lakes changing color is the interaction of volcanic gases emerging from the bottom of the crater and minerals with the lake water. In particular, the dissolution of minerals such as iron and manganese in the water at different rates leads to a change in the chemical balance, which in turn causes the color of the lake water to differentiate. The most prominent result of changes in water chemistry is chemical reactions such as oxidation and reduction. These processes sometimes cause the lakes to appear in completely different shades. In addition, environmental factors such as volcanic activity, the underground water system, and the amount of precipitation also affect this cycle.

Another remarkable feature of Kelimutu's crater lakes is that there is no precise time for these color changes. Experts state that a color change experienced in one of the lakes does not necessarily affect the others, and that this occurs independently in each lake. Observations recorded in 2016 show that the lakes changed color several times within a very short period.

The Kelimutu lakes continue to offer a rare experiment from a scientific perspective while also continuing to fascinate their visitors with their mystical texture.