Biological importance and environmental quality of the Santa Ana lagoon, Zacatecas

Abstract

In order to determining the presence of contamination by organic matter and diversity of aquatic bird species in the Santa Ana lagoon, Zac. The evaluation of the environmental quality (water quality and identification of migratory waterfowl species) was carried out during the migratory season in the lagoon wetland, which is located within the migratory route of the center presenting great deterioration environment due to anthropogenic factors. The results indicated BOD₅ and COD values ​​with an average of 55 and 230.6 mg/L respectively, suggesting a high level of contamination. The presence of residual discharges of treated and sanitary water was observed, being the cause of the contamination levels. Regarding bird diversity, a Shannon index of 2.7 was obtained, which indicates a high diversity of aquatic birds, including the presence of the Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis), a species of importance for conservation both nationally and internationally. It is concluded that the Santa Ana lagoon presents an important biological potential as a habitat for several aquatic species.