It is connected to the sea by two artificial canals, which were the work of the Bavarian engineer Otto, made in order to drain part of the lake, because the inhabitants of the surrounding villages suffered from malaria.

Integrated into the Natura 2000 European Network,[6] this wetland of Cynuria has been designated as a protected area, as it is a refuge for a significant population of migratory birds that overwinter there (wild swans, herons, mallards, Eurasian coots).

Its dense reeds nest: falcons, purple herons and a small number of endangered black-winged stilts.

Other species of the fauna include flathead grey mullets, eels, marginated tortoises and toads and lizards protected by the Berne Convention and Greek law.

The vegetation that grows on the edges of the wetland is mainly characterized by aquatic plants such as: reeds, thorns and alders, whilst around white crocus, red and white anemones, Greek cyclamens, poppies and the White Narcissus, a flower with a strong scent that the locals call Manusaki, can be found.