Benthic and Pelagic Primary Production in Laguna Bacalar, Mexico

Session: Poster session

Leah Holloway, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Freshwater Sciences, [email protected]
Leah Stromberg, UWM-freshwater science/ Alverno College, [email protected]
Kaleena Jones, School of Freshwater Science / Alverno College, [email protected]
Haley Lucas, School of Freshwater Science, [email protected]
Ruth Fenelon, University of Milwaukee Wisconsin , [email protected]

Abstract

Laguna Bacalar is a 42 km-long oligotrophic, freshwater laguna in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Over the past five years tourism has increased, yet the area does not have adequate municipal sewage infrastructure; this has resulted in greater nutrient inputs and eutrophication of the laguna. To better understand the current trophic level of the laguna, measurements of benthic and pelagic primary production were taken and compared with previous years' data. An early sign of eutrophication in Laguna Bacalar was the growth of a benthic algal mat. If the eutrophication trend continues, pelagic primary production will begin to increase as well, leading to the dominance of phytoplankton, and spurring the spread of the invasive black stripped mussel (Mytilopsis sallei). Excessive phytoplankton growth will likely increase mussel density, which will severely inhibit or kill the Laguna's world-famous stromatolites. This information will lead to an ongoing monitoring program in the Laguna and facilitate protections for the laguna from the impacts of the area's growing tourism industry. 

1. Keyword
eutrophication

2. Keyword
productivity

3. Keyword
environmental contaminants

4. Additional Keyword
stromatolites