Integrando índices tróficos, análisis espacio - temporal y modelamiento de nutrientes como herramientas en la gestión de la laguna de Busa, cantón San Fernando, provincia del Azuay

Abstract

Eutrophication is a significant threat to lake ecosystems, making its assessment crucial for effective management. This study evaluated the water quality and trophic state of the Busa lagoon using indices such as the OECD Eutrophication Index and the Trophic State Index (TSI), along with a spatiotemporal analysis. Key parameters such as phosphorus, nitrogen, and chlorophyll-a were measured at four sampling points during both dry and rainy seasons. The results showed varying degrees of eutrophication depending on the season and significant correlations between the TSI and parameters like pH and turbidity. Nutrient load modeling with PAMOLARE under different scenarios revealed that without corrective measures, the lagoon tends toward progressive eutrophication, while preventive measures reduce contaminants and improve water transparency. However, an increase in polluting activities worsens the situation. This study emphasizes the need for management strategies to preserve the sustainability of the lagoon’s ecosystem.