Spatio-temporal assessment of the water quality of Laguna de la Leche

Abstract

Introduction: The assessment of water quality in aquatic ecosystems is essential to determine the health of these important natural resources. Objective: To evaluate the water quality of Laguna de la Leche. Method: Water samples were taken at the surface level, at nine sampling sites in Laguna de la Leche, the largest natural lagoon in Cuba. An evaluation of the lagoon's characteristics was carried out according to the physico-chemical and microbiological parameters established by Cuban and international standards. Water quality was assessed through the determination of the water quality index for surface water resources. Results: According to the salinity and electrical conductivity values, the waters of this lagoon can be classified as brackish waters and within these, as mesohaline to polyhaline waters. The waters are classified as slightly alkaline. Dissolved oxygen levels were high and little variable, and there were no sites with anoxia or hypoxia. Concentrations of bacteria indicative of contamination did not exceed the maximum allowable limits for fishing waters; however, these waters were classified as restricted for public drinking water. Conclusion: According to the calculated water quality index, the lagoon's waters are contaminated throughout.