Lakes

Lakes are inland, still-water bodies surrounded by land, containing fresh or saline water and covering roughly 16.2% of the world’s land area. Formed by tectonic, volcanic, or glacial activity—or human construction—they are vital ecosystems and, together with groundwater, hold over 98% of available freshwater. Key types include, tectonic, glacial, and anthropogenic (artificial) lakes, such as reservoirs.