Overview
Ciénaga de Mallorquín is a coastal lagoon in Colombia designated as a RAMSAR site due to its regional and international ecological importance. This work implemented the Environmental Fluid Dynamics Code Explorer Modeling System to determine the spatio-temporal distribution of temperature, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand, and nutrient levels, and to assess the trophic status of the lagoon.
Model Setup
The model was set up with field measurement data taken during the transition period and wet season, along with secondary information obtained from local authorities and environmental agencies. Model simulations were calibrated and verified using the root mean square error method, achieving a consistent fit for all considered variables.
Key Findings
Average velocities ranged between 0.006 m/s and 0.013 m/s across the analyzed periods. Temperature was higher in the wet season than in the transition period (31.5 °C versus 29 °C), while dissolved oxygen was similar in both periods (6.6–6.7 mg/L). Nitrate concentrations were higher during the transition period, with the lowest values found in the area influenced by the connection with the Caribbean Sea, and phosphate concentrations were lower in the wet season. Ciénaga de Mallorquín exhibits high productivity with a Trophic State Index above 50, varying temporally from mesotrophic to eutrophic — making the Trophic State Index a useful tool for managing water body eutrophication and productivity.