why is lake eyre pink Page 137

Ah, the curious case of pink Lake Eyre, Australia's salt lake that likes to show off. The pink hue is caused by the presence of halophilic algae and bacteria that thrive in its salty waters, particularly Dunaliella salina. These microscopic artists produce carotenoid pigments, especially beta-carotene, which gives the water that rosy blush. The effect is usually seen after heavy rains when the lake fills and becomes salty enough for these organisms to party hard. Don't expect it year-round, though—it's more like nature's occasional mood lighting.