Temporal integration analysis of environmental behavior and fish abundance in selected coastal systems of the southern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

Tropical coastal environments, notably the southern Gulf of Mexico, are recognized for their rich biodiversity and productive habitats, with key areas being the Terminos Lagoon Flora and Fauna Protected Area (TLFFPA) and the Los Petenes Biosphere Reserve (LPBR). This study, spanning 1985–2011, presents an environmental overview and fish abundance analysis across five zones. Variation has widened, especially in salinity: zone I = 23.4–34.5 to 19.1–36.2; zone II = Palizada-Del Este 0.4–7 to 0.2–2.6, Chumpam-Balchacah 2.6–26.6 to 8.2–34.3, Pom-Atasta, 2.2–19.8 to 0.3–1.6, and Candelaria-Panlau 2.4–18.2 to 1.8–21.9; zone III = 17.4–33.7 to 11.9–25.5; zone IV = 33.5–39.4 to 29.8–41.3. Species richness reached 194, and density (ind/m²) declined in most zones over the years: zone I = 47.8%; zone II = Candelaria-Panlau 74.4%, Chumpam-Balcahcah 22%, Palizada-Del Este 31%, and Pom-Atasta 9.5%; zone III = 61.5%; and zone IV = 32.5%. Coastal ecosystems, dynamic and shaped by diverse forces, face ongoing changes due to human activities, notably in the western region (zones I–III). Temperature and salinity changes lead to reduced density, biomass, and a shift in the composition of dominant species. Evidence supports the notion that introducing invasive species into rivers displaces or diminishes native species. Despite being a Natural Protected Area, the Terminos Lagoon faces intense human activity tied to the fishing and oil industries. In contrast, the LPBR maintains a low impact and a positive conservation status. The study stresses the need for continuous monitoring, especially for TLFFPA, deemed critical for additional information and effective management. Simultaneously, the LPBR should be monitored with adherence to the environmental development plan.