Lake Yojoa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake YojoaLago de Yojoa |
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 Lake Yojoa
Lago de Yojoa Location in Honduras
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| Coordinates | 14°52′01″N 87°58′59″W / 14.867°N 87.983°W |
| Basin countries | Honduras |
| Surface area | 79 km2 (31 sq mi) |
| Average depth | 15 m (49 ft) |
| Surface elevation | c. 700 m (2,300 ft) |
| Official name: Subcuenca del Lago de Yojoa | |
| Designated: | 5 June 2005 |
| Reference #: | 1467 |
| Lake Yojoa | |
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Satellite photo of Lake Yojoa
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 700 m (2,300 ft) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Honduras |
| Geology | |
| Mountain type | Volcanic field with lava-dammed lake |
| Last eruption | Unknown |
Lake Yojoa is the biggest lake in Honduras. It covers about 79 square kilometers (30 square miles). The lake is around 15 meters (49 feet) deep on average.
It sits high up, about 700 meters (2,300 feet) above sea level. This lake formed in a dip in the land made by volcanoes. The area around Lake Yojoa has many old volcanoes. These volcanoes created scoria cones, craters, and lava flows over thousands of years.
Contents
Exploring Lake Yojoa's Location
Lake Yojoa is a special place in Honduras. It is found along the main highway. This road connects Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula. These are the two largest cities in Honduras.
Natural Parks and Scenery
The lake has beautiful natural surroundings. On its west side, you can see tall mountains. These mountains are part of Santa Bárbara National Park. To the east, the lake touches Cerro Azul Meambar National Park.
Many travelers stop here to rest. They enjoy the amazing views of the lake. Local restaurants offer fresh fried fish and other tasty foods.
Wildlife and Nature at Lake Yojoa
Lake Yojoa is famous for its rich biodiversity. This means it has many different kinds of plants and animals. It is a great spot for nature lovers.
Amazing Plant Life
Around the lake, scientists have found about 800 types of plants. This makes the area a green paradise. Local people also grow fruits, vegetables, and basic grains here.
Birdwatching Paradise
The lake is a popular place for birdwatching. Nearly 400 different kinds of birds live in this region. This makes it a very important habitat for birds.
Fishing and Local Life
Lake Yojoa is a favorite spot for fishing. Many people living near the lake make their living by selling fish caught from its waters.
Challenges Facing Lake Yojoa
Even though Lake Yojoa is beautiful, it faces some threats. People are working to protect this important natural area.
Environmental Concerns
The lake is threatened by deforestation. This is when forests are cut down. Cattle ranching also affects the area. New buildings and developments can also harm the lake's environment.
Coffee Farming Around the Lake
The land around Lake Yojoa is also used for growing coffee. Coffee from Santa Barbara, near the lake, is very well-known.
See also
- List of volcanoes in Honduras
