Condiciones ambientales de los pastos marinos del paisaje natural protegido Rincón de Guanabo, Cuba

Assessing environmental conditions in seagrass ecosystems supports decision-making for their protection by considering the ecosystem goods and services they provide. This study aimed to evaluate the environmental quality of seagrass meadow waters in the Rincón de Guanabo Protected Natural Landscape, as part of integrated research towards the sustainable use of Thalassia testudinum for the development of a biotechnological product. Water characterization was assessed between March and April of the 2021-2025 period using abiotic and biotic indicators. Salinity and pH values were characteristic of coastal waters. Most concentrations of dissolved oxygen, organic matter, nutrients, and sanitary-hygienic quality indicators were within permissible limits under Cuban environmental regulations, except in April 2024, when natural disturbances caused exceedances. Total heterotrophic bacteria and phytoplankton concentrations indicated a predominance of oligo-mesotrophic to mesotrophic waters; however, the presence of cyanobacteria signals possible ecosystem deterioration. The integrated analysis of these indicators using the Coastal Zone Water Quality Index (ICAZOC) classified the meadow waters as Not Impacted to Moderately Impacted, except in April 2024. These results suggest adequate environmental conditions for seagrass and represent baseline information for the sustainable use of T. testudinum in the area.