The lakes where Africa's flamingos congregate in spectacular numbers are producing less food for the iconic birds as their water levels rise, researchers said Friday, threatening the survival of a much-loved species.- 'Iconic species' -
But the lakes have risen to levels not seen in decades, driven in part by increased rainfall linked to climate change over the catchment areas.
From California’s Central Valley to the croplands of Iran, groundwater depletion has accelerated over the last four decades across the world’s arid food-producing regions. In many parts of the western United States, India, Chile, Spain, Mexico and other countries, groundwater levels have been rapidly declining as water is heavily pumped to irrigate farmlands, according to a new study analyzing measurements from 170,000 wells in more than 40 countries. The research, published in the journal Natur
Groundwater depletion is worsening in many of the world's farming regions. But a global study also found that some efforts are helping to boost aquifers.
Many of these residents, along with their cattle and essential belongings, have taken refuge on the dhussi bandh, an earthen embankment approximately 10 feet to 15 feet above the riverbed near their villages.