PS 36-12 - Confirmation of bioluminescent dinoflagellate in urban lagoon, Condado Puerto Rico

Abstract: In Puerto Rico are three lagoons with confirmed bioluminescent which are Laguna Grande de Fajardo, Laguna de la Parguera, and Laguna Mosquito in Vieques. These bays have significant economic value in the tourism industry; in Laguna de Fajardo, approximately $ 1,698,250.00 was generated in 2018. For many years there have been anecdotal observations of bioluminescence at Condado lagoon in the Capital City of San Juan. During Hurricane Fiona, which passed Puerto Rico on 18 September 2022, citizens reported high bioluminescence in the lagoon Condado. On 21 September, we collected four 1L samples from the edge, and middle, at three depths, 0m, 1m, and 1,5 m, to confirm the presence and density of the bioluminescent dinoflagellate Pyridium bahamense. We confirmed the presence of the species using an electron microscope, and no spatial difference in density. Also, as this is an Open lagoon, no controls were used. We did observe difference in density by depth, with the highest densities at the surface and the lowest density at 1.5m. The presence of the bioluminescent dinoflagellates is explained by the unusually high waves and strong winds that trap the organisms within the lagoon during the hurricane. To consider Condado lagoon a viable tourism option, it is necessary to understand the spatial and temporal dynamics of bioluminescent dinoflagellates in this location. Given the significant economic impact of bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico, by understanding the behavior of bioluminescence in the lagoon we can encourage economic development and at the same time, take conscious on the required measures to preserve the bioluminescence.

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