Macroalgal blooms in coastal lagoons of the Gulf of California eco-region: a summary of current knowledge

Abstract

The Gulf of California is an important eco-region with 52 coastal lagoons that are affected by the different anthropogenic activities in their surrounding areas. Several studies in the region have reported seasonal changes in macroalgal biomass, and some have suggested that these changes may be associated with nutrient enrichment. However, research on macroalgal biomass increase has been done in only 27% of these coastal lagoons. In some species, biomass is related to high concentrations of nitrogen in the water column (in relation to phosphorus levels). Compared with other regions of the world, macroalgal biomass remains low here. More research is needed to establish clearer linkages between primary producers and nutrient sources associated with increasing human activities around the coastal lagoons of the Gulf of California.