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Large Lakes of the World

Welcome to the IAGLR Large Lakes of the World Project!  This resource features interactive maps, lake data, research, and photos for these tremendous natural resources and encourages interaction among large lake researchers, managers, policymakers, teachers, students, and others interested in these ecosystems. Lakes included in this database have a mean surface area of at least 500 km², although smaller lakes may be considered, including very deep lakes.  They are found on six continents, represent a wide range of geologic origins and climate types, cover a range of salinities, and account for nearly 90% of the surface area (nearly 1,456,000 km²) and volume (approximately 202,000 km³) of water found in world lakes (Herdendorf 1982).

We can learn much from each other.  Please help further update this database to unveil new information and promote advances in our understanding of large lake ecosystems.

Get Involved

We welcome submissions of data updates or corrections, photographs, interesting lake topics, and even inclusion of new lakes. All individuals worldwide interested in large lakes and their watersheds are encouraged to

• add lake information and photos,
• attend IAGLR’s annual Conference on Great Lakes Research,
• read and submit manuscripts to the Journal of Great Lakes Research,
• join IAGLR, and
• support IAGLR by donating money or volunteering your time and expertise.