Lake Bam is in the transition zone between the southern Sahelian and northern Sudanian phytogeographic areas. The Site hosts a rich and varied biological diversity; the wooded savannah is dominated by Vitellaria paradoxa, Parkia biglobosa, Tamarindus indica and Bombax costatum. The Site also hosts birds such as Bubulcus ibis and Motacilla flava. There are several fish species in the lake such as Oreochromis niloticus and Schilbe mystus. The Lake is also home to a large population of Nile crocodiles. The Site gives livelihoods to thousands of people in Bam Province in market gardening, fishing (there are nearly 800 fishermen) and arboriculture. Its ecological character therefore depends on the degree of exploitation of the lake by local populations. The lake is also slowly drying up, putting at risk fish stocks and water supply for crops and cattle.

Last publication date: 27-03-2017