The flora is predominantly algal, and many species reach the southern limit of their distribution. General water recreation is a popular activity. The site is an important feeding area for rare pelicans and fish, for molting and breeding birds, as well as for staging wading birds. During dry periods, large numbers of flamingos gather. The site also supports notable plant species.
Water is pumped for irrigation purposes, and the marshland is used for cattle grazing.
Ramsar site no. 525. The lakes provide a major form of flood control. Ramsar site no. 524. Posted 26 January 2000, updated 21 October 2000, Dwight Peck, Ramsar.