Dakataua, Volcanic caldera on Willaumez Peninsula, Papua New Guinea
Dakataua is a volcanic caldera on the Willaumez Peninsula, shaped by a horseshoe-formed lake at its center. The basin was created by volcanic collapse and is now surrounded by steep walls that rise from the water's edge.
The caldera formed approximately 1150 years ago from a massive volcanic eruption that reshaped the land. A nearby volcano, Mount Makalia, also showed activity more recently, with its last recorded eruption in the 1800s.
Local communities have maintained deep connections to this volcanic region through stories and practices passed down over generations. These traditions shape how people relate to the landscape and the water that fills the caldera today.
The water in the caldera is alkaline and requires special care when exploring due to its unusual conditions. Access to the area is limited, and visitors should learn about local weather patterns and accessibility before planning a trip.
The water contains no fish species despite being large and deep enough to support fish populations. This unusual biological emptiness makes the lake a fascinating site for scientific study and observation.
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