Final answer:
Lake Maracaibo is connected to the Gulf of Venezuela by the Tablazo Strait and is a significant body of water due to its oil reserves and unique ecosystem.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lake that is connected to the Gulf of Venezuela by the Tablazo Strait is Lake Maracaibo. Lake Maracaibo is a vast body of water that has been a vital part of Venezuela's economy due to its oil reserves.
Although referred to as a lake, Maracaibo is more accurately described as a large, brackish bay as it is connected to the Caribbean Sea. It is known not just for its economic significance but also for its unique ecosystem.