Parishan Lake, also known by its local names Moor, Famour, or Pagan, is a significant and beautiful freshwater lake located in the Fars Province of southwestern Iran. It holds the distinction of being the largest freshwater lake in the country and is recognized globally for its ecological importance.

Geographical Location and Features:

• Location: Situated in the Jereh and Baladeh District, approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) southeast of Kazeroon city, and about 60 kilometers (37 miles) west of Shiraz. It lies on the southern edge of the Zagros Mountains.
• Elevation: The lake’s surface is at an elevation of about 820 meters (2,690 feet) above sea level.
• Dimensions: Its area fluctuates significantly with the seasons, ranging from approximately 2,500 to 5,000 hectares (6,200 to 12,350 acres). The catchment area is around 266.5 square kilometers (103 sq mi). When fully inundated, its average depth is between 1.5 to 5 meters (5 to 16 feet), with some sources citing an average depth of 2 to 2.5 meters (6.5 to 8.2 feet).
• Basin: It is located within a closed drainage basin in a broad valley. The surrounding topography includes mountain ranges approximately 4-5 kilometers (2.5-3 miles) to the north and about 500 meters (1,640 feet) to the south.
• Water Sources: Parishan Lake is primarily fed by rainfall, numerous underground springs, and seasonal streams originating from the surrounding mountains. Its water quality can range from brackish to saline, with salinity levels varying depending on its size and precipitation.

Ecosystem and Biodiversity:

• Freshwater Ecosystem: Parishan Lake is a vital freshwater wetland, unique in its capacity to support a rich biodiversity.
• Flora: The lake and its surrounding areas are characterized by diverse vegetation. The wetlands are fringed by marshes dominated by reeds. The highlands feature forests with species like chestnut and oak trees. Notably, the area is famous for its narcissus fields, which burst into bloom in autumn and winter, creating spectacular scenery. Submerged aquatic plants include species from the Najadaceae and Ceratophyllaceae families. Other significant plant types include Phragmites, Typhaceae, Cyperaceae and Liliaceae.
• Fauna:
  • Birds: Parishan Lake is an extremely important site for both resident and migratory birds. It serves as a crucial staging and wintering ground for thousands of waterfowl, including pelicans, flamingos, herons, egrets, storks, cranes, ducks, and various other species that migrate from as far as Siberia and Canada. It is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) of Iran.
  • Fish: The lake supports a variety of fish species, including Capoeta barroisi, Shishamo, Mesopotamian himri, Eurasian carp, Hypostomus plecostomus, Crucian carp, Anguillidae, Liza abu, and Shabout. Fish cultivation is also practiced in the lake.
  • Other Wildlife: The region also hosts a range of other animals, including wild boars, and historically, the Asiatic lion was known to inhabit the surrounding areas.

Conservation Status and Designations:

• Ramsar Site: Parishan Lake, along with the adjacent Dasht-e-Arjan, was designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance on June 23, 1975 (Site no. 37). This designation highlights its significance for global wetland conservation.
• UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: The area has also been recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve under the “Man and the Biosphere” (MAB) program, underscoring its ecological and scientific value.
• Protected Area: It is designated as a protected area by Iran’s Department of Environment and is part of the Arzan National Park.

Ecological Challenges and Threats:

Despite its protected status, Parishan Lake faces significant environmental challenges:

• Drying Up and Water Level Decline: Similar to many other Iranian wetlands, Parishan Lake has experienced severe water level fluctuations and, at times, has been on the brink of drying up completely.
• Unsustainable Water Management: The primary driver of this crisis is the unsustainable exploitation of groundwater. Over 1,300 wells have been dug around the lake for extensive agricultural irrigation, drastically reducing the water inflow.
• Climate Change and Drought: Prolonged droughts and climate change have exacerbated the situation by reducing rainfall and increasing evaporation rates.
• Habitat Degradation: Pollution from agricultural runoff and the overall degradation of its ecosystem threaten its biodiversity.

Tourism and Recreation:

Parishan Lake is a popular destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and eco-tourists.

• Scenery: Its picturesque setting, surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation, especially the vibrant narcissus fields in autumn and winter, makes it a captivating landscape.
• Activities: Birdwatching, photography, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty are common activities. The lake is also used for fish cultivation.
• Accessibility: It is accessible via a road from Kazeroon city.

Historical Significance:

• Asiatic Lion Habitat: Historically, the area around Lake Parishan was one of the last strongholds of the Asiatic lion in Iran. Plans to reintroduce lions from India were considered but did not materialize.
• Ancient Roads: The region also features ancient roads dating back to the Qajar period and is in proximity to historical sites like Bishapur.

Parishan Lake represents a critical ecological asset for Iran, facing the urgent challenge of balancing human needs with conservation efforts to ensure its survival for future generations.