ABSTRACT Anthropogenic eutrophication is a prevalent issue that impacts water quality by excessive nutrient loads, primarily of nitrogen and phosphorus. This study examines the causes and impacts of nutrient enrichment and its spatial–temporal variability across the Río Grande de Comitán-Lagos de Montebello watershed (RGC-LM, Mexico). We applied a mixed-methods design that integrates seasonal water quality field measurements of physicochemical parameters and nutrients, and qualitative information from interviews with local stakeholders within a systemic Driver–Pressure–State–Impact–Response (DPSIR) framework. Nutrient accumulation in this watershed is characterised by the combined influence of diffuse and point-source pollution, hydrological connectivity, and socio-institutional factors. Untreated wastewater discharges dominate nutrient inputs in the upper watershed and agricultural runoff constitutes the main diffuse source in the middle watershed. These pressures propagate downstream and differentially affect mountain and plateau lakes in the Lagunas de Montebello National Park (LMNP), a wetland of international importance. Our findings reveal complex challenges in eutrophication management and underscore the need for localised and feasible strategies tailored to the conditions of the watershed. We propose region-specific responses that combine wastewater management, nature-based solutions, legal actions, remote sensing and community-based monitoring to support national water policy and Ramsar commitments in a complex socio-ecological system.

Trophic categorization and eutrophication trend of a tropical karst lake district: "Lagunas de Montebello," México.

Wetlands are among the most essential and diverse ecosystems, providing a wide range of intrinsic ecological functions that sustain biodiversity and contribute to the well-being of surrounding communities. However, they are increasingly threatened by water quality degradation resulting from both natural processes and anthropogenic pressures. This study presents an assessment of water quality in two Ramsar-designated wetlands in northern Mexico: the Cañón de Fernández State Park and the Laguna de Santiaguillo. In situ measurements and laboratory analyses were conducted to evaluate physicochemical, microbiological, and emerging contaminants, with a focus on pharmaceuticals. Multivariate statistical methods, specifically cluster and correlation analyses, were applied to identify spatial patterns, contaminant sources, and potential environmental stressors. Additionally, a Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WAWQI) was calculated to provide an integrated evaluation of water quality. Results revealed distinct contaminant profiles across sites, reflecting both geogenic inputs (e.g., Al, As, Fe) and anthropogenic influences, including wastewater discharge, agricultural runoff, and seasonal tourism. The presence of pharmaceuticals, such as diclofenac, along with high coliform counts and chemical oxygen demand, indicates the occurrence of emerging pollutants in protected areas. The WQI classified water quality as "poor" in Cañón de Fernández and "unsuitable" in Laguna de Santiaguillo, mainly associated with elevated arsenic levels and low dissolved oxygen. These findings highlight the need for integrated watershed management, improved wastewater infrastructure, and monitoring strategies that include emerging contaminants, while emphasizing the value of wetlands and the critical need for conservation efforts that acknowledge both their ecological functions and the benefits they provide to humanity.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of inorganic elements in feathers of green-winged teals (Anas crecca Linnaeus, 1758) and snow geese (Anser caerulescens Linnaeus, 1758) that hibernate at Laguna de Santiaguillo in Durango. Additionally, the use of feathers as exposure indicators to metallic pollutants was determined. The hypothesis proposed was that the feathers of both bird species contain detectable concentrations of metals, indicating varying levels of exposure to environmental pollutants based on their habits and migration routes. During the 2021–2022 hunting season, a total of 30 green-winged teals and 27 snow geese were collected. The primary P9 and P10 feathers from the left wing of each bird were gathered for analysis. The feathers were cleaned, dehydrated, and analyzed using voltammetry to quantify the concentrations of Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu, Cr, Sn, Al, As, Ni, and Hg. The results revealed significant differences between species. The teals displayed higher concentrations of As, Cr, and Ni, whereas the geese had higher levels of Ni and Cu. Although essential elements like Zn and Cu were present in high concentrations, non-essential elements such as Cd and Pb were also detected. Particularly, Pb levels in some teal individuals were concerning due to their potential toxicity. Significant correlations were identified between certain metals (As-Cr and Pb-Zn), suggesting common exposures to anthropogenic sources, possibly related to agricultural and industrial activities. This study confirms that feathers serve as effective and non-invasive biomarkers to detect the exposure to metallic pollutants, providing a “chemical memory” of accumulation during growth. Consequently, the working hypothesis is accepted, establishing a foundation for future research and environmental conservation efforts focused on priority wetlands, such as Laguna de Santiaguillo.

Objective: To characterize the production process and commercialization channels of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) farmed in floating cages by producers from the Laguna de Tres Palos, Acapulco, Guerrero and to propose a marketing strategy. Design/Methodology/Approach: The design consisted of a quantitative and qualitative approach and included a descriptive and cross-sectional scope. In addition, a non-probability convenience sampling and a semi-structured questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions were used. The questionnaire included overall producer and commercialization data. The SPSS software and the coding method were used to analyze the information. Results: Producers have a low organization level which, consequently, favors buyers in the tilapia sale negotiation. Likewise, tilapia aquaculturists use a traditional commercialization approach, which the producers believe to be an acceptable income. Study Limitations/Implications: The non-probabilistic convenience sampling design used means that the results of this study are exclusive to the analyzed sample. Consequently, the results of this study cannot be applied to all aquaculture producers in Laguna de Tres Palos. Probabilistic sampling should be used in future research to confirm these results at a population level. Findings/Conclusions: A better integration of the different stages of the process could improve tilapia production and commercialization. In addition, including advertising and awareness-raising campaigns about tilapia consumption is recommended.

The present research study aims at gauging the level of knowledge and attraction of the Natural Park of the Lagunas de La Mata and Torrevieja (Alicante), as well as to delve into the determining factors for visiting them from within the evolving framework of 3S destinations, and the need to establish new approaches towards diversification and enhanced quality of coastal tourism, by complemtation with undervalued resources that promote sustainable products and services. To this end, this research uses a combined methodology based on a review of the scientific literature relating to protected natural areas and their potential to diversify, differentiate and qualify tourist destinations. In addition, quantitative and qualitative techniques are used, specifically the design of a structured questionnaire aimed at potential visitors to this protected natural area in southeastern Spain, as well as in‐depth interviews with agents directly related to the management and promotion of this natural area. As main results, this work underlines the importance of taking into account the tourist motivations and highlights the relevance of taking advantage of the attractiveness of ornithology as a first level tourist resource.

Background: Barnacles are among the most successful invasive invertebrates worldwide. In the Gulf of Mexico, invasive barnacle species coexist with native species. In Laguna de Términos, Campeche, previous studies have recorded two invasive species: Amphibalanus amphitrite and A. reticulatus. However, native populations typically dominated on natural substrates. Goals: This study provides the first evidence of the dominance of invasive barnacles on artificial substrates in the region. This research was part of a broader investigation on the diversity and spatial distribution of invertebrate recruitment in seagrass meadows, using collectors not specifically designed for sessile organisms. Methods: Three seagrass meadow sites, each over 7 km apart and varying degrees of wave exposure, were selected to assess spatial variability in meadow-associated organism community. Artificial seagrass units made of plastic straps were strategically deployed at the center, edge, and outside of each meadow during the summer. Upon retrieval, a significant abundance of barnacles prompted a detailed analysis of this community. Results: Invasive species dominated all three sites, comprising 55% of total barnacle settlements, while native species accounted for 45%. Among invasive species, A. amphitrite was the most abundant (94%), followed by A. reticulatus (6%). Among native species, A. eburneus was the most abundant (74%), followed by A. venustus (18%) and A. improvisus (8%). Significant differences were found by site (p<0.01) and by meadow zone between invasive and native (p<0.05). Conclusions: We observed a possible displacement of native barnacles by the invasive barnacles, based on previous studies concerning natural substrates in Laguna de Términos. However, our study focused on artificial substrates, where ecological dynamics may differ. There is no conclusive evidence of displacement, and the potential impact remains uncertain, whether temporary or permanent.

Volcanic crater interiors in Nicaragua’s Pacific region are a valuable, understudied, and threatened native plant resource. Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve encompasses a crater and lake formed following a Quaternary volcanic explosion in Pacific Nicaragua. The flora of the tropical dry forest in the crater’s interior surrounding the lake has not been extensively assessed. We identified 403 native and 72 introduced plant species and their uses through a combination of survey plots, unstructured interviews, expert consultations, and targeted searches for plant species coordinated with key informants in the Reserve. Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Asteraceae were the most represented native species, whereas the most significant numbers of introduced species were found in Poaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Fabaceae. Forty-one species have conservation priority status. Documented uses were found for 70% of the native species and 88% of the introduced species. The most significant numbers of plant species with reported use types were ornamentals and fuelwood. This study constitutes the most comprehensive plant species inventory in a protected area of Nicaragua’s tropical dry forest biome. These findings indicate native plant diversity is high, introduced species pose considerable risks, and most species are integrated into local uses. Consequently, management decisions should explicitly promote native diversity, protect threatened species, better control introduced species, and encourage sustainable use.

Perimyotis subflavus, is a species that is currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List due to the population decline that is causing the White-Nose Syndrome (WNS). However, in Mexico, its ecology and distribution are poorly understood. Despite its distribution in Mexico being mainly in the east, in Nuevo León has never been recorded until now. The individual’s capture was done during a speleologist exploration on March 18th, 2025, in a cave in Laguna de Sánchez, Santiago, Nuevo León. We described the microclimatic characteristics of the roost by measuring the temperature and relative humidity. We also measured individuals fur temperature and roost’s surface temperature where the bat was roosting. Our observation of P. subflavus is the first one in the Nuevo León state. The individual was an adult non-reproductive male in an apparent torpid state. Its fur temperature was 11.1°C, and the roost surface temperature was 13.1°C. The cave’s microclimate at the moment of the capture had a temperature of 12.5°C and a relative humidity of 79.8%. The nearest historical observation of P. subflavus in Tamaulipas state is 146.63 km from our record and 251.08 km from the record in Coahuila state. With our new addition, Nuevo León now has 36 bat species already recorded. The individual was apparently torpid, meaning there are conditions suitable for WNS growth, as it demonstrates that northeast of Mexico could be vulnerable to WNS invasion. Our finding underscores the urgent need to continue studying bat populations in these poorly surveyed regions to anticipate potential threats and establish effective conservation strategies.

Mangrove blue carbon in Laguna de Términos, México, a protected area: Spatial variability, sources and factors related

Global warming is generating substantial environmental modifications in fragile alpine areas. Past temperature reconstructions are necessary to evaluate how climate change modified alpine environments before instrumental measurements. In this study, we present a reconstruction of Holocene mean July and summer air temperatures, derived from chironomid and pollen assemblages preserved in the sedimentary record from Laguna de la Mosca (LdlMo), an alpine lake located in the Sierra Nevada of southern Spain. The ∼8500-year-long LdlMo record shows highest temperatures reached during the Early and Middle Holocene from ∼8500 until ∼7100 calibrated 14 C years BP (cal yr BP), when a first drop in temperatures occurred. Temperatures stabilized during the Middle Holocene and a second drop happened at ∼4500 and 4200 cal yr BP, possibly associated with the 4.2 kyr climatic event. Temperatures remained generally low during the Late Holocene, interrupted by warming between 2300 and 1600 cal yr BP during the Iberian Roman Humid Period (IRHP), and around 1000 cal yr BP during the Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA). Minimum temperatures are recorded during the end of the Little Ice Age (LIA) at ∼1800 CE. A sudden and rapidly increasing trend in temperatures of ∼2.5 °C occurred since 1955 CE related to anthropogenic climate warming. This study confirms the rapid recent warming at high elevations, affecting the very sensitive chironomid assemblages and compromising these fragile and unique alpine lake ecosystems. • Warmest temperatures occurred between 8500 and 7100 cal yr BP related to insolation. • Subsequent cooling occurred in two steps, at 7100 and 4200 cal yr BP. • Cold and arid conditions recorded in Sierra Nevada during 4.2 kyr event. • Modern climate warming during summer in Sierra Nevada exceeds 2 °C.

We report the complete genome of Deinococcus sp. strain ME38, which was isolated from sediment of Lake the Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello. This genome consists of 4,397,810 bp and 4,474 coding sequences, with 69.3% G + C content. Whole-genome sequencing was performed to explore the bioremediation potential in aquatic ecosystems.

As the largest lake in the Philippines, Laguna de Bay exhibits a high sensitivity to both local and global climate changes. Its surface water temperature is influenced by a combination of internal dynamics and external drivers, including global climatic phenomena such as the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Temperature fluctuations associated with ENSO can directly or indirectly affect the lake’s ecological stability as well as the surrounding environmental conditions. Therefore, monitoring the relationship between lake surface temperature and the ENSO index is crucial for anticipating potential impacts. This study utilized Sentinel-3 satellite imagery, processed through an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model, to estimate the surface temperature of Laguna de Bay. The findings reveal that ANN consistently outperformed the Random Forest (RF) algorithm, achieving its best performance on Band 8 with MAE of 0.045°C, RMSE of 0.051°C, R of 0.970, and R 2 of 0.941. In contrast, RF recorded its lowest accuracy on Band 7, with MAE of 0.174°C, RMSE of 0.293°C, and R 2 of only 0.661. Band 8 emerged as the most numerically optimal channel for both algorithms, while Band 9, despite being less stable in quantitative terms (MAE 0.101°C, RMSE 0.174°C), demonstrated significant visual advantages (visual MAE of 0.0001°C, RMSE 0.011°C), making it highly effective for identifying microthermal spatial dynamics and thermal anomalies in tropical waters. Furthermore, climatological analysis indicates that the influence of ENSO on surface temperature variation in Laguna de Bay is weak, with a positive but low correlation (R = 0.34, R 2 = 0.12). The local Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) ranged from 0.019°C to 0.105°C—substantially lower than the global ONI (0.71°C to 0.81°C)—although both exhibited similar trends during El Niño phases. This weak response is likely due to the lake’s geographic position within the transitional zone between the Pacific Ocean and Southeast Asia.

The Early Pleistocene continental deposits of the Tiberino Basin (Central Italy) host exceptionally preserved fossil charophyte assemblages that provide critical insights into palaeoenvironmental and palaeoclimatic dynamics during a key phase of the Mediterranean evolution. Integrated micropalaeontological and sedimentological investigations at three reference sections reveal distinct charophyte communities characterized by Chara cf. hispida (Hartman) Wood, 1962, Chara cf. vulgaris Linnaeus, 1753, Nitellopsis obtusa (Desvaux in Loiseleur) Groves, 1919, and Lychnothamnus barbatus (Meyen, 1827) von Leonhardi 1863, not reported until now. These assemblages reflect a mosaic of stable lacustrine, ephemeral swamp, and palustrine environments shaped by increasing climatic oscillations approaching the Early–Middle Pleistocene transition. Comparative data from Mediterranean basins, such as Laguna de Gallocanta, Lake Afourgagh, and Ilgin Palaeolake (Türkiye), highlight the role of charophytes as sensitive indicators of hydrological and climatic variability. This study strengthens the palaeolimnological and palaeoenvironmental significance of charophyte fossils and proposes new avenues for multidisciplinary research into Quaternary environmental evolution in Mediterranean continental basins.

ABSTRACTEcosystem Services (ESs) valuation is a fundamental tool for understanding the interrelationships between society and the benefits provided by ecosystems, especially in contexts with specific territorial characteristics. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the educational level and the prioritization of ESs in the Laguna de Bustillos basin, located in Cuauhtémoc, Chihuahua, Mexico, to provide elements for the design of differentiated and adaptive public policies aimed at ecosystem conservation. The methodology used consisted of the application of structured surveys to collect socioeconomic information and identify the presence and perceived value of provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting ESs. Data analysis was conducted using the nonparametric Kruskal–Wallis test and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results showed a higher prevalence of provisioning services (64%), followed by supporting (60%) and cultural services (59%), whereas regulating services were less prevalent (54%). Statistically significant differences were found in ES valuation according to users' educational level. The PCA revealed two structural components: one associated with provisioning and regulating services, and another related to cultural and supporting services. These findings support the proposal of differentiated conservation strategies aligned with the social priorities of various educational groups. It is concluded that public conservation policies must incorporate the diversity of social perceptions as an essential element for achieving sustainable and participatory environmental management.

Phases of anthropogenic activities since the mid-20th century from the sediment geochemistry of Laguna de Bai (Philippines)

Marine litter seen through the lens: photo-identification on beaches as a strategy for coastal monitoring and management.

This study evaluates the quality of water and sediments in a high-altitude Andean lake designated as a RAMSAR wetland of international ecological importance called Guamuéz Lake (Laguna de la Cocha). The analysis focuses on their effects on riparian vegetation, particularly on Schoenoplectus californicus (Bulrush), a keystone species in the lacustrine ecosystem. Water and sediment samples were collected from areas under varying levels of anthropogenic pressure, including zones with and without visible degradation. Results indicate that agricultural runoff, aquaculture, and domestic wastewater discharges are major drivers of spatial and seasonal variability in water quality. Elevated biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were observed during the rainy season, suggesting increased organic matter input. Sediment analyses showed that impacted areas had higher concentrations of metals such as iron and manganese and significantly elevated microbial loads. Microbiological analysis of sediments revealed a 440% increase in total microbial colonies at impacted sites compared to unaffected ones, with fecal coliforms (FC) and total coliforms (TC) increasing by 191% and 513%, respectively. This suggests that wastewater contamination promotes anaerobic conditions detrimental to S. californicus root systems, possibly contributing to vegetation dieback. The findings underscore the importance of including sediment quality assessments in aquatic ecosystem monitoring, as key indicators of riparian vegetation decline may not be evident through water analysis alone. These results call for integrated and sustainable watershed management practices to mitigate human impact and preserve the ecological integrity of this internationally recognized wetland system.

This study compared gonad development between wild-sourced and hatchery-bred silver therapon Leiopotherapon plumbeus. Wild fish from the east bay area of Laguna de Bay, Philippines, and hatchery-bred stocks grown to adult size in outdoor tanks were sampled, and somatic condition, gonad histology, gonadosomatic index (GSI), gut index (GI), and hepatosomatic index (HSI) were assessed during the annual reproductive cycle. Hatcherybred fish condition was generally better than that of wild-sourced fish as a consequence of readily available food resources and environmental conditions. Hatchery-bred male GSIs were significantly higher than in wild male fish in November to February, coinciding with low water temperatures. However, female GSIs were significantly higher in July and November to December for the hatchery-bred fish, and in January to April for the wild-sourced fish. Together with spermatozoa and primary growth oocytes which were most abundant in the gonads, the presence of other gametogenic stages supports asynchronous gonad development. Hatchery-reared fish showed significantly higher GIs during the spawning season over their wild counterparts. Generally, mean HSI, regardless of sex, was also higher among hatchery-bred fish. The present results suggest marked differences in the somatic and reproductive potential of wild and hatchery-bred silver therapon, although the presence of spermatozoa and vitellogenic oocytes in the gonads may allow this species to reproduce year-round.

This article critically examines the dissonance between Venezuela's proclaimed ecosocialist policies and the harsh socio-environmental realities faced by its most vulnerable communities. Through a comparative analysis of three case studies—Laguna de Píritu, Morrocoy National Park, and Canaima National Park—it interrogates how the Venezuelan regime’s alliance with global extractive industries exacerbates environmental degradation, displaces indigenous and marginalized populations, and intensifies social inequalities. Grounded in frameworks of environmental justice, political ecology, and social constructionism, the study highlights how the regime co-opts progressive discourses on indigenous and feminist movements to mask its neoliberal practices. The research reveals the "Polluter-Industrial Complex" at the heart of Venezuela's resource extraction strategies, emphasizing the disproportionate burdens borne by indigenous and Afro-descendant communities. By integrating critical environmental justice and intersectional approaches, the article underscores the urgent need for equitable and sustainable solutions that prioritize ecological integrity and social equity. It calls for dismantling entrenched systems of oppression and reframing environmental policy to address the intersection of race, class, gender, and environmental harm in the Venezuelan context.