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At present, many coastal ecosystems worldwide are highly affected by anthropic activities. La Mancha lagoon, in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, is an important ecosystem due to the wide array of ecosystem services that it provides. In this paper, an analysis of the environmental balances of the lagoon is outlined, using the Drivers, Exchanges, State of the Environment, Consequences and Responses (DESCR) tool. The methodological framework considers the interrelationships between the natural systems and the forces of change that alter the performance of the natural environment, in order to provide an overview of actions that may reduce negative consequences. The study area has been impacted by anthropic development, such as changes in land use for agricultural and livestock activities, loss of mangroves due to logging and modifications, carried out by local fishermen, to the natural hydrodynamics of the lagoon that alter the salinity and affect the ecosystem dynamics. Following analysis of the area, using the DESCR tool, the responses proposed include long-term environmental impact evaluation, with the aim of preserving the local coastal ecosystems.
Samantha Chacón Abarca; Valeria Chávez; Rodolfo Silva; M. Martínez; Giorgio Anfuso. Understanding the Dynamics of a Coastal Lagoon: Drivers, Exchanges, State of the Environment, Consequences and Responses. Geosciences 2021, 11, 301 .
AMA StyleSamantha Chacón Abarca, Valeria Chávez, Rodolfo Silva, M. Martínez, Giorgio Anfuso. Understanding the Dynamics of a Coastal Lagoon: Drivers, Exchanges, State of the Environment, Consequences and Responses. Geosciences. 2021; 11 (8):301.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSamantha Chacón Abarca; Valeria Chávez; Rodolfo Silva; M. Martínez; Giorgio Anfuso. 2021. "Understanding the Dynamics of a Coastal Lagoon: Drivers, Exchanges, State of the Environment, Consequences and Responses." Geosciences 11, no. 8: 301.
In Mexico, as in other countries, coastal urbanization and landscape changes are occurring at an unprecedented scale and rate, with potential negative impacts on local biodiversity. Nevertheless, studies of the impacts that such changes have on coastal dune vegetation are relatively scarce. In this study, we examined (a) the trends of urban sprawl and landscape changes along the coast of Veracruz for more than 20 years; (b) the impact of urban sprawl on plant species richness and plant functional groups; c) how landscape changes have affected plant diversity and community structure. Our results show an increasing urbanization along the coasts of the Gulf of Mexico, occurring at different rates, and being higher in locations closest to tourist areas. Plant species richness decreased with urban expansion while the proportion of plant functional types was altered. Inland species not tolerant to the beach-dune environment became more abundant in the most urbanized locations while the abundance of psammophytes decreased. Community structure (the dominant species) was modified with landscape changes. Our results are useful for an adaptive management strategy and will help develop sustainable beach management plans that should include the conservation of native and highly specialized species, such as psammophytes.
Karla Salgado; M. Luisa Martínez; L. Lucero Álvarez-Molina; Patrick Hesp; Miguel Equihua; Ismael Mariño-Tapia. Impact of urbanization and landscape changes on the vegetation of coastal dunes along the Gulf of Mexico. Écoscience 2021, 1 -14.
AMA StyleKarla Salgado, M. Luisa Martínez, L. Lucero Álvarez-Molina, Patrick Hesp, Miguel Equihua, Ismael Mariño-Tapia. Impact of urbanization and landscape changes on the vegetation of coastal dunes along the Gulf of Mexico. Écoscience. 2021; ():1-14.
Chicago/Turabian StyleKarla Salgado; M. Luisa Martínez; L. Lucero Álvarez-Molina; Patrick Hesp; Miguel Equihua; Ismael Mariño-Tapia. 2021. "Impact of urbanization and landscape changes on the vegetation of coastal dunes along the Gulf of Mexico." Écoscience , no. : 1-14.
Renewable ocean energy is an alternative that will help reduce carbon emissions into the atmosphere. However, there is uncertainty about potential environmental impacts of the technologies involved, because these are new and untested, and methods for the evaluation and monitoring of environmental impacts are scarce. We performed a systematic literature review (well-structured and organized, always looking for the same terms), followed by a systemic analysis in which we considered the interactions between environmental stressors, effects, receptors, and their responses. We found that most studies are theoretical revisions and modelling exercises, although field and laboratory experiments and observations are beginning to accumulate. Environmental stressors are features in the environment (energy-harvesting devices) that modify the natural dynamics of the system. The effects are the changes in the environment induced by the stressors; the most frequently acknowledged and measured are noise, collision, habitat change, hydro-sedimentary dynamics and wave modifications. The receptors of these changes are marine fauna, such as mammals, fish, sea birds, and benthic communities, as well as the shoreline. Their corresponding responses include behaviour, injuries/death, biodiversity loss, alterations in food webs and shoreline change. Once the different components of the environmental impacts are identified, it is important to develop monitoring and mitigation strategies to prevent, or minimize, environmental damage. Ocean energy is a promising option to reduce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere, but the implementation of adequate monitoring and mitigation technologies requires multidisciplinary efforts to obtain effectively clean, renewable energy and to maintain healthy and functional ecosystems.
M.L. Martínez; G. Vázquez; O. Pérez-Maqueo; R. Silva; P. Moreno-Casasola; G. Mendoza-González; J. López-Portillo; I. MacGregor-Fors; G. Heckel; J.R. Hernández-Santana; J.G. García-Franco; G. Castillo-Campos; A.L. Lara-Domínguez. A systemic view of potential environmental impacts of ocean energy production. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 2021, 149, 111332 .
AMA StyleM.L. Martínez, G. Vázquez, O. Pérez-Maqueo, R. Silva, P. Moreno-Casasola, G. Mendoza-González, J. López-Portillo, I. MacGregor-Fors, G. Heckel, J.R. Hernández-Santana, J.G. García-Franco, G. Castillo-Campos, A.L. Lara-Domínguez. A systemic view of potential environmental impacts of ocean energy production. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. 2021; 149 ():111332.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM.L. Martínez; G. Vázquez; O. Pérez-Maqueo; R. Silva; P. Moreno-Casasola; G. Mendoza-González; J. López-Portillo; I. MacGregor-Fors; G. Heckel; J.R. Hernández-Santana; J.G. García-Franco; G. Castillo-Campos; A.L. Lara-Domínguez. 2021. "A systemic view of potential environmental impacts of ocean energy production." Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 149, no. : 111332.
Caribbean islands are important hotspots for endemic species, concentrating high biodiversity on exceptionally small areas. Cozumel Island is not an exception, yet little published information exists on its bird diversity. In this study, we assessed the contribution of each major ecosystem of Cozumel Island (i.e., tropical forest, mangrove, palm thicket, and urban setting) to the island’s avian diversity. Avian richness was highest in tropical forests, followed by mangroves, palm thickets, and urban setting. Bird densities were highest in urban settings, followed by tropical forests, mangroves, and palm thickets. Species composition similarity among ecosystems was low, with the most dissimilar ecosystem being the urban setting. Interestingly, we recorded the highest number of unique species in mangroves, followed by tropical forests, urban settings, and palm thickets. Tropical forests and mangroves of Cozumel Island are the main ecosystems harboring high avian diversity, with tropical forests housing high avian densities and endemics and mangroves including the most unique species. As expected, the contribution of urban settings to the avian diversity of Cozumel Island is limited and includes some highly abundant invasive species, of which the Eurasian Collared-Dove could represent a major ecological threat.
Ian MacGregor-Fors; Miguel A. Gómez-Martínez; Luis-Bernardo Vázquez; M. Luisa Martínez. Birds of the Land of Swallows: contribution of the main ecosystems of Cozumel Island to its avian diversity. Écoscience 2021, 1 -10.
AMA StyleIan MacGregor-Fors, Miguel A. Gómez-Martínez, Luis-Bernardo Vázquez, M. Luisa Martínez. Birds of the Land of Swallows: contribution of the main ecosystems of Cozumel Island to its avian diversity. Écoscience. 2021; ():1-10.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIan MacGregor-Fors; Miguel A. Gómez-Martínez; Luis-Bernardo Vázquez; M. Luisa Martínez. 2021. "Birds of the Land of Swallows: contribution of the main ecosystems of Cozumel Island to its avian diversity." Écoscience , no. : 1-10.
Although the technologies involved in converting saline gradient energy (SGE) are rapidly developing, few studies have focused on evaluating possible environmental impacts. In this work, the environmental impacts of a hypothetical 50 kW RED plant installed in La Carbonera Lagoon, Yucatan, Mexico, are addressed. The theoretical support was taken from a literature review and analysis of the components involved in the pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) and reverse electrodialysis (RED) technologies. The study was performed under a three-stage scheme (construction, operation, and dismantling) for which the stress-inducing factors that can drive changes in environmental elements (receptors) were determined. In turn, the possible modifications to the dynamics of the ecosystem (responses) were assessed. Since it is a small-scale energy plant, only local impacts are expected. This study shows that a well-designed SGE plant can have a low environmental impact and also be of benefit to local ecotourism and ecosystem conservation while contributing to a clean, renewable energy supply. Moreover, the same plant in another location in the same system could lead to huge modifications to the flows and resident times of the coastal lagoon water, causing great damage to the biotic and abiotic environment.
Etzaguery Marin-Coria; Rodolfo Silva; Cecilia Enriquez; M. Martínez; Edgar Mendoza. Environmental Assessment of the Impacts and Benefits of a Salinity Gradient Energy Pilot Plant. Energies 2021, 14, 3252 .
AMA StyleEtzaguery Marin-Coria, Rodolfo Silva, Cecilia Enriquez, M. Martínez, Edgar Mendoza. Environmental Assessment of the Impacts and Benefits of a Salinity Gradient Energy Pilot Plant. Energies. 2021; 14 (11):3252.
Chicago/Turabian StyleEtzaguery Marin-Coria; Rodolfo Silva; Cecilia Enriquez; M. Martínez; Edgar Mendoza. 2021. "Environmental Assessment of the Impacts and Benefits of a Salinity Gradient Energy Pilot Plant." Energies 14, no. 11: 3252.
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic that has altered practically all human activities worldwide. Since the pandemic started at the beginning of 2020, infections have fluctuated drastically over time. It is difficult to predict how this situation will evolve in the coming months/years or when a return to some semblance of ’normal’ activity might occur. Because of global lock-up and distancing measures, the beaches, otherwise filled with tourists, first emptied and then had a reduced density of visitors owing to a wide variety of social-distancing measures. Therefore, new safety protocols need to include a wide range of aspects, such as epidemiological conditions, socioeconomic realities, and ecological contexts in which the pandemic occurs. Here, we propose new nature-based landscapes for sandy beaches to help maintain the social distancing of beach visitors while beaches and dunes are restored. When sufficient sediment is available, the maintenance and restoration of healthy beaches with incipient dunes and vegetation will help reduce contagion, promote human health, and recover natural ecosystems.
Patricia Moreno-Casasola; Marisa Martínez; Debora Lithgow. New Beach Landscapes to Promote Social Distancing and Coastal Conservation during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Sustainability 2021, 13, 6268 .
AMA StylePatricia Moreno-Casasola, Marisa Martínez, Debora Lithgow. New Beach Landscapes to Promote Social Distancing and Coastal Conservation during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Sustainability. 2021; 13 (11):6268.
Chicago/Turabian StylePatricia Moreno-Casasola; Marisa Martínez; Debora Lithgow. 2021. "New Beach Landscapes to Promote Social Distancing and Coastal Conservation during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic." Sustainability 13, no. 11: 6268.
Sustainable energy is needed globally, and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) is a possible way to diversify the energy matrix. This article suggests a preliminary selection process to find optimal sites for OTEC deployment on the Mexican coastline. The method comprises the (1) evaluation of the thermal power potential, using daily data (16 years) of sea surface temperature, and the percentage of available time of the power thresholds; (2) assessment of feasibility using a decision matrix, fed by technical, environmental and socioeconomic criteria; (3) identification of four potential sites; and (4) comparison of OTEC competitiveness with other technologies through the levelized cost of energy. Multi-criteria decision analysis was applied to select optimal sites, using the technique for ordering performance by the similarity to the ideal solution. The best sites were (1) Puerto Angel and (2) Cabo San Lucas; with power production of > 50 MW and a persistence of > 40%. As yet there is no evidence from operational OTEC plants that could alter the environmental and socioeconomic criteria weightings. More in situ studies on pilot plants should help to determine their possible environmental impact and socio-economic consequences before any larger-scale projects are implemented.
Erika Garduño-Ruiz; Rodolfo Silva; Yandy Rodríguez-Cueto; Alejandro García-Huante; Jorge Olmedo-González; M. Martínez; Astrid Wojtarowski; Raúl Martell-Dubois; Sergio Cerdeira-Estrada. Criteria for Optimal Site Selection for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Plants in Mexico. Energies 2021, 14, 2121 .
AMA StyleErika Garduño-Ruiz, Rodolfo Silva, Yandy Rodríguez-Cueto, Alejandro García-Huante, Jorge Olmedo-González, M. Martínez, Astrid Wojtarowski, Raúl Martell-Dubois, Sergio Cerdeira-Estrada. Criteria for Optimal Site Selection for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Plants in Mexico. Energies. 2021; 14 (8):2121.
Chicago/Turabian StyleErika Garduño-Ruiz; Rodolfo Silva; Yandy Rodríguez-Cueto; Alejandro García-Huante; Jorge Olmedo-González; M. Martínez; Astrid Wojtarowski; Raúl Martell-Dubois; Sergio Cerdeira-Estrada. 2021. "Criteria for Optimal Site Selection for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) Plants in Mexico." Energies 14, no. 8: 2121.
Sandy coasts represent about one-third of the global coastline and are among the most valuable and most vulnerable areas for humans and many other species. Socio-economic development and climate change impacts, together with traditional engineering for shore protection, have pervasively resulted in coastal squeeze, thereby threatening coastal life and economic activities, and the very survival of coastal ecosystems. In the past, the responses to problems such as land loss, coastal erosion and flooding were primarily reactive, through gray engineering solutions, with little interest shown in the ecosystem processes impacted by coastal armoring. In recent decades, coastal management strategies have become more diverse, embracing traditional engineering solutions alongside ecosystem-based measures. Even so, many of these new strategies still fail to meet sustainability criteria. Inspired by Per Bruun’s “The Ten Demands for Coastal Protection” from 1972, this article attempts to consider these changes and knowledge acquired since the 1970s, in order to tentatively formulate “Ten Commandments” for the sustainability of sandy coasts in face of climate change and socio-economic development. As such, the paper offers a new vision and briefly summarizes good practices for the management of sandy coasts, particularly useful for those who, at whatever level of influence, could contribute to the long-term realization of this new vision.
Rodolfo Silva; Hocine Oumeraci; M. Luisa Martínez; Valeria Chávez; Debora Lithgow; Brigitta I. van Tussenbroek; Helena F. M. W. van Rijswick; Tjeerd J. Bouma. Ten Commandments for Sustainable, Safe, and W/Healthy Sandy Coasts Facing Global Change. Frontiers in Marine Science 2021, 8, 1 .
AMA StyleRodolfo Silva, Hocine Oumeraci, M. Luisa Martínez, Valeria Chávez, Debora Lithgow, Brigitta I. van Tussenbroek, Helena F. M. W. van Rijswick, Tjeerd J. Bouma. Ten Commandments for Sustainable, Safe, and W/Healthy Sandy Coasts Facing Global Change. Frontiers in Marine Science. 2021; 8 ():1.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRodolfo Silva; Hocine Oumeraci; M. Luisa Martínez; Valeria Chávez; Debora Lithgow; Brigitta I. van Tussenbroek; Helena F. M. W. van Rijswick; Tjeerd J. Bouma. 2021. "Ten Commandments for Sustainable, Safe, and W/Healthy Sandy Coasts Facing Global Change." Frontiers in Marine Science 8, no. : 1.
In Mexico, the CEMIE-Océano (Mexican Center for Ocean Energy Innovation) is exploring potential locations for marine energy production while assessing social perception and protecting the environment. The goals of this study were to: a) calculate potential renewable energy production in the north of the Yucatan Peninsula; b) understand the perception of the local inhabitants towards the installation and operation of ocean energy devices and c) estimate the potential environmental impacts in the Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, considering keystone or unique/endemic species. Our results indicate that energy harvesting through salinity gradient would be the most feasible among renewable energy production alternatives that would reduce emissions of CO2 into the atmosphere thus helping mitigate global warming. The maximum recorded salinity was 90 psu, in February and April, which would provide 1.39 kWh/m3. This would not be sufficient to fully meet the local demands for electricity. Our findings show that the local people are not well informed regarding renewable energies. They appreciate their natural environment and would be very reluctant to see drastic changes in their surroundings. Finally, if saline gradient energy production were to be implemented here, the changes in the gradient and hydrosedimentary flows would probably induce undesirable alterations to the natural ecosystems: (mangroves), food webs (plankton), and threatened species (flamingos and horseshoe crabs). In conclusion, our findings indicate that salinity gradient energy production is unlikely to be viable in the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve mostly because of the reluctance of local inhabitants to changes in their environment and the potential environmental impacts.
Astrid Wojtarowski; M. Luisa Martínez; Rodolfo Silva; Gabriela Vázquez; Cecilia Enriquez; Jorge López-Portillo; José G. García-Franco; Ian MacGregor-Fors; Ana Laura Lara-Domínguez; Debora Lithgow. Renewable energy production in a Mexican biosphere reserve: Assessing the potential using a multidisciplinary approach. Science of The Total Environment 2021, 776, 145823 .
AMA StyleAstrid Wojtarowski, M. Luisa Martínez, Rodolfo Silva, Gabriela Vázquez, Cecilia Enriquez, Jorge López-Portillo, José G. García-Franco, Ian MacGregor-Fors, Ana Laura Lara-Domínguez, Debora Lithgow. Renewable energy production in a Mexican biosphere reserve: Assessing the potential using a multidisciplinary approach. Science of The Total Environment. 2021; 776 ():145823.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAstrid Wojtarowski; M. Luisa Martínez; Rodolfo Silva; Gabriela Vázquez; Cecilia Enriquez; Jorge López-Portillo; José G. García-Franco; Ian MacGregor-Fors; Ana Laura Lara-Domínguez; Debora Lithgow. 2021. "Renewable energy production in a Mexican biosphere reserve: Assessing the potential using a multidisciplinary approach." Science of The Total Environment 776, no. : 145823.
The coastal zone is in a critical state worldwide, due to the loss and fragmentation of its ecosystems. Much of this is caused by long-term anthropic local, regional, or global actions, which drive coastal squeeze processes. Most of the criteria to evaluate the effects of coastal squeeze are focused on merely identifying its effect on the coastal zone. Here, we propose a framework to manage (identify, analyze, quantify, and tackle) the effect of coastal squeeze. This DESCR framework examines the relations between Drivers, Exchanges, and States of the environment to subsequently evaluate the chronic, negative Consequences and determine possible Responses. To illustrate the application of the DESCR framework, the coastal zone of Puerto Morelos, in the Mexican Caribbean, was studied using this approach. We analyzed the systemic interactions among the coastal ecosystems in this area, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, beach, coastal dunes, and mangroves, which have been altered over the last decades, resulting in a severe coastal squeeze. Recommended responses include urgent measures for ecosystem management to mitigate the coastal squeeze.
Rodolfo Silva; María Martínez; Brigitta Van Tussenbroek; Laura Guzmán-Rodríguez; Edgar Mendoza; Jorge López-Portillo. A Framework to Manage Coastal Squeeze. Sustainability 2020, 12, 10610 .
AMA StyleRodolfo Silva, María Martínez, Brigitta Van Tussenbroek, Laura Guzmán-Rodríguez, Edgar Mendoza, Jorge López-Portillo. A Framework to Manage Coastal Squeeze. Sustainability. 2020; 12 (24):10610.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRodolfo Silva; María Martínez; Brigitta Van Tussenbroek; Laura Guzmán-Rodríguez; Edgar Mendoza; Jorge López-Portillo. 2020. "A Framework to Manage Coastal Squeeze." Sustainability 12, no. 24: 10610.
Beach evening-primrose (Oenothera drummondii subsp. drummondii) is a perennial herb native to the coastal dunes of the Gulf of Mexico and southeastern USA. During the last century, the species was unintentionally introduced into coastal dune systems around the world. The purpose of this study was to explore the means of dispersal of this invasive in the newly established populations on the coastal dunes of Spain and to determine if they contribute significantly to the invasion process. After reconstructing the history of its spread in Spain from available records, we tested whether dispersion by marine currents can be a mechanism of colonization at regional scale, and whether the presence of native vertebrate participate in the expansion process at local scale. Through laboratory experiments, we demonstrated that the seeds of O. drummondii can be dispersed by seawater, since 0.63% present both buoyancy in seawater and subsequent germination after being washed with fresh water. This capacity for dispersal by marine currents could explain both the expansion of the species along the southwestern coast of Spain and the maintenance of its populations following disturbances such as storms. We also demonstrated that Iberian Hares and European Rabbits can disperse the seeds by endozoochory; seeds recovered from faecal pellets of these species were capable of germination (73 and 63%, respectively). Oenothera drummondii has become an invader only in coastal dunes where these dispersers are present, and with no control actions to regulate their populations. In conclusion, O. drummondii is an alien species with varying dispersal methods, polychory. This helps maintain already established populations and disperses seeds at a regional level, depending on the incidence of storms and the presence or absence of rabbits and hares for efficient local seed dispersion. Thus, management actions that restrict marine and animal dispersal likely have the benefit of limiting the invasive potential of O. drummondii.
Juan B. Gallego-Fernández; M. Luisa Martínez; José G. García-Franco; María Zunzunegui. Multiple seed dispersal modes of an invasive plant species on coastal dunes. Biological Invasions 2020, 23, 111 -127.
AMA StyleJuan B. Gallego-Fernández, M. Luisa Martínez, José G. García-Franco, María Zunzunegui. Multiple seed dispersal modes of an invasive plant species on coastal dunes. Biological Invasions. 2020; 23 (1):111-127.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJuan B. Gallego-Fernández; M. Luisa Martínez; José G. García-Franco; María Zunzunegui. 2020. "Multiple seed dispersal modes of an invasive plant species on coastal dunes." Biological Invasions 23, no. 1: 111-127.
Around the world, population growth, land use changes and coastal infrastructure have modified coastlines. In many cases these actions have induced intense degradation and loss of the ecosystems there. Sandy beaches and coastal dunes are amongst the most threatened features. In Mexico, coastal dunes in the state of Nayarit, on the Pacific, have been affected by small scale tourism, the construction of artificial inlets and an increase in agricultural activities, even though they are part of a Biosphere Reserve. While there is a growing need for restoration or rehabilitation programs to protect these coastal dunes, such actions are almost non-existent because of financial limitations, difficulties in deciding which locations most urgently need these strategies, and the uncertainty of the results. Our goal was to evaluate the coastline of the Marismas Nacionales Biosphere Reserve, in the state of Nayarit, Mexico, examining geomorphological, ecological, and socioeconomic variables. Ninety sites were assessed, using the Re-Dune index, 41 beaches were found to be in a good state of conservation, while 43 are degraded but with the potential for success when subjected to restoration measures. Six sites were seen as highly degraded, with rehabilitation being the most viable option. By recovering the coastal dunes of Marismas Nacionales, the hurricane protection provided by them will be enhanced and sustainable social and economic development will be more likely.
Debora Lithgow; M. Luisa Martínez; Juan B. Gallego-Fernández; Octavio Pérez-Maqueo; Rodolfo Silva. Assessing the current state and restoration needs of the beaches and coastal dunes of Marismas Nacionales, Nayarit, Mexico. Ecological Indicators 2020, 119, 106859 .
AMA StyleDebora Lithgow, M. Luisa Martínez, Juan B. Gallego-Fernández, Octavio Pérez-Maqueo, Rodolfo Silva. Assessing the current state and restoration needs of the beaches and coastal dunes of Marismas Nacionales, Nayarit, Mexico. Ecological Indicators. 2020; 119 ():106859.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDebora Lithgow; M. Luisa Martínez; Juan B. Gallego-Fernández; Octavio Pérez-Maqueo; Rodolfo Silva. 2020. "Assessing the current state and restoration needs of the beaches and coastal dunes of Marismas Nacionales, Nayarit, Mexico." Ecological Indicators 119, no. : 106859.
The new species Salacia frutiplatensis is described and illustrated herein. This new taxon is part of the arboreal strata of the coastal sand dunes scrub of Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico, where it is considered endemic. Salacia frutiplatensis is similar to S. elliptica, S. cordata, and S. impressifolia, but differs from these in the shape and diameter of the extra-staminal disk, pericarp thickness, greater number of seeds, and not displaying the lianous habit.
Gonzalo Castillo-Campos; Olivia M. Palacios-Wassenaar; M. Luisa Martínez. Salacia frutiplatensis (Celastraceae, Salacioideae), a new species of the coastal sand dunes of Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico. Phytotaxa 2020, 440, 186 -192.
AMA StyleGonzalo Castillo-Campos, Olivia M. Palacios-Wassenaar, M. Luisa Martínez. Salacia frutiplatensis (Celastraceae, Salacioideae), a new species of the coastal sand dunes of Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico. Phytotaxa. 2020; 440 (3):186-192.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGonzalo Castillo-Campos; Olivia M. Palacios-Wassenaar; M. Luisa Martínez. 2020. "Salacia frutiplatensis (Celastraceae, Salacioideae), a new species of the coastal sand dunes of Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, Mexico." Phytotaxa 440, no. 3: 186-192.
One of the major threats to the diversity of coastal dunes is the expansion of invasive species, such as Oenothera drummondii subsp. drummondii (Onagraceae). In southwestern Spain, we studied the impact of this American invasive on community structure and composition along a beach-dune gradient (beach, foredune, and inland dunes). Differences in density, biomass, and the cover of O. drummondii, the cover of perennial and annuals/biennials species, and Shannon diversity index H’ and dominance λ were compared between invaded and uninvaded sectors. We observed that the intensity and impact of the invasion by O. drummondii varies along the beach-dune gradient. The abundance of the invasive plant increased inland and in consequence, its impact on species richness and composition was highest in inland dunes. Here, plant cover of O. drummondii represented 57.9% of total plant cover; species richness was reduced (with 3.3 fewer species per 2 × 2 plot), diversity H’ was lower while dominance λ was higher. At a broader scale, species richness in the invaded sector was 25% larger than in the uninvaded sector, because of the presence of ruderal species. Species composition also was modified after the invasion. The abundance of a keystone native species was largely reduced (Ammophila arenaria), and some natives became locally extinct (Otanthus maritimus, Eryngium maritimum, Medicago marina and Elymus farctus). We conclude that the high environmental severity of the beach and foredunes results in a reduced invasion and impact of O. drummondii, whereas the milder conditions of inland dunes promote its expansion. The shift in community structure and composition can have an increasing domino effect and thus monitoring, and mitigation actions are necessary. When doing so, the environmental heterogeneity of the beach-dune gradient should be considered, given its relevance in the invasion process.
Juan Bautista Gallego-Fernandez; M. Luisa Martínez; José G. García-Franco; María Zunzunegui. The impact on plant communities of an invasive alien herb, Oenothera drummondii, varies along the beach-coastal dune gradient. Flora 2019, 260, 151466 .
AMA StyleJuan Bautista Gallego-Fernandez, M. Luisa Martínez, José G. García-Franco, María Zunzunegui. The impact on plant communities of an invasive alien herb, Oenothera drummondii, varies along the beach-coastal dune gradient. Flora. 2019; 260 ():151466.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJuan Bautista Gallego-Fernandez; M. Luisa Martínez; José G. García-Franco; María Zunzunegui. 2019. "The impact on plant communities of an invasive alien herb, Oenothera drummondii, varies along the beach-coastal dune gradient." Flora 260, no. : 151466.
Background: The understanding of the processes that govern community assembly during ecological succession helps determine the ecological attributes in restoration and monitoring programmes. Aims: The aim of this long-term study of primary succession was to analyse changes in species richness, diversity, taxonomic distinctness and functional types to understand community assembly processes. Methods: For 25 years, species turnover was monitored in 150 permanent plots in a dune system on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Results: Earliest successional states had low species diversity and richness, a high unevenness in the taxonomic tree structure of the plant community, and a lower number of functional groups, with psammophytes being dominant. Richness and diversity increased in a humped-back shape with intermediate states reaching the highest values. Succession generated taxonomic trees that became less uneven and more diverse, and the diversity of functional groups increased. Conclusions: The processes underlying community assembly are complex during succession: sand movement acts as an environmental filter affecting the dominant functional groups, and species interactions probably change from facilitation to competition, resulting in the humped-back pattern. The understanding of the combined processes affecting the different measure of diversity over time can improve the effectiveness of restoration and conservation practice in dune systems.
M. Luisa Martínez; Gabriela Vázquez; Mario E. Favila; Lucero Álvarez-Molina. Variation in different measures of diversity during primary succession on a tropical coastal dune. Plant Ecology & Diversity 2019, 12, 489 -505.
AMA StyleM. Luisa Martínez, Gabriela Vázquez, Mario E. Favila, Lucero Álvarez-Molina. Variation in different measures of diversity during primary succession on a tropical coastal dune. Plant Ecology & Diversity. 2019; 12 (5):489-505.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. Luisa Martínez; Gabriela Vázquez; Mario E. Favila; Lucero Álvarez-Molina. 2019. "Variation in different measures of diversity during primary succession on a tropical coastal dune." Plant Ecology & Diversity 12, no. 5: 489-505.
Coastal erosion is a natural process, whose intensity and occurrence have increased due to natural and anthropogenic factors. To protect the coasts, the use of hard infrastructure is a widespread practice that can be effective, mostly at a local scale. However, recent evidence also shows that downstream erosion can be accelerated in adjacent zones. Because of this, natural barriers such as coastal dunes and their plant cover have gained attention, but there is a general lack of information about the role that different species (and combinations of species) play in coastal protection. The aim of this study was to explore if the functional richness of plant species helps reduce wave erosion on embryo coastal dunes. In a wave flume, we set up a 1:1 scale artificial dune covered with different combinations of plant species (Ipomoeae pes-caprae, Sesuvium portulacastrum, and Sporobolus virginicus) and exposed it to simulated “storm waves”. We found that erosion was reduced in dunes covered by plants, but such protection was species-specific and the effectiveness of protection varied over time. Ipomoea was the most effective specie for protection. Differences between species and combinations of species were associated with their physical attributes such as growth form and plant architecture. Although we found that there are species that offer little or no protection from hydrodynamic forces, they may still be important for coastal protection through their ability to build embryo dunes through eolian processes. Indeed, nature-based coastal protection is likely to be an effective alternative to engineered solutions at many sites, but the protection provided is species-specific.
Carmelo Maximiliano-Cordova; Karla Salgado; M. Luisa Martínez; Edgar Mendoza; Rodolfo Silva; Roger Guevara; Rusty A. Feagin. Does the Functional Richness of Plants Reduce Wave Erosion on Embryo Coastal Dunes? Estuaries and Coasts 2019, 42, 1730 -1741.
AMA StyleCarmelo Maximiliano-Cordova, Karla Salgado, M. Luisa Martínez, Edgar Mendoza, Rodolfo Silva, Roger Guevara, Rusty A. Feagin. Does the Functional Richness of Plants Reduce Wave Erosion on Embryo Coastal Dunes? Estuaries and Coasts. 2019; 42 (7):1730-1741.
Chicago/Turabian StyleCarmelo Maximiliano-Cordova; Karla Salgado; M. Luisa Martínez; Edgar Mendoza; Rodolfo Silva; Roger Guevara; Rusty A. Feagin. 2019. "Does the Functional Richness of Plants Reduce Wave Erosion on Embryo Coastal Dunes?" Estuaries and Coasts 42, no. 7: 1730-1741.
“Coastal squeeze” occurs when there is a chronic loss of coastal habitats landward associated with long-term processes such as sea level rise, land subsidence, sediment deficit and the occupation of space by infrastructure. This phenomenon may also affect socioeconomic activities such as tourism. The goal of this study was to explore the co-occurrence of tourism with coastal squeeze and flooding along the coasts of the Mexican Gulf of Mexico and Mexican Caribbean. Our results reveal that thirty percent of the tourist destinations are exposed to flooding; 62% of the total study area had a moderate to severe degree of coastal squeeze and 66% of the hotels are in squeezed beaches. Finally, we found that most tourist destinations undergoing coastal squeeze are in flood-prone sites, placing communities in high-risk conditions. Different alternatives (such as ecosystem-based protection) to overcome this problem are discussed.
Debora Lithgow; M. Luisa Martínez; Juan Bautista Gallego-Fernandez; Rodolfo Silva; Debora L. Ramírez-Vargas. Exploring the co-occurrence between coastal squeeze and coastal tourism in a changing climate and its consequences. Tourism Management 2019, 74, 43 -54.
AMA StyleDebora Lithgow, M. Luisa Martínez, Juan Bautista Gallego-Fernandez, Rodolfo Silva, Debora L. Ramírez-Vargas. Exploring the co-occurrence between coastal squeeze and coastal tourism in a changing climate and its consequences. Tourism Management. 2019; 74 ():43-54.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDebora Lithgow; M. Luisa Martínez; Juan Bautista Gallego-Fernandez; Rodolfo Silva; Debora L. Ramírez-Vargas. 2019. "Exploring the co-occurrence between coastal squeeze and coastal tourism in a changing climate and its consequences." Tourism Management 74, no. : 43-54.
Natural ecosystems are expected to reduce the damaging effects of extreme hydrometeorological effects. We tested this prediction for Mexico by performing regression models, with two dependent variables: the occurrence of deaths and economic damages, at a state and municipality levels. For each location, the explanatory variables were the Mexican social vulnerability index (which includes socioeconomic aspects, local capacity to prevent and respond to an emergency, and the perception of risk) and land use cover considering different vegetation types. We used the hydrometeorological events that have affected Mexico from 1970 to 2011. Our findings reveal that: (a) hydrometeorological events affect both coastal and inland states, although damages are greater on the coast; (b) the protective role of natural ecosystems only was clear at a municipality level: the presence of mangroves, tropical dry forest and tropical rainforest was related to a significant reduction in the occurrence of casualties. Social vulnerability was positively correlated with the occurrence of deaths. Natural ecosystems, both typically coastal (mangroves) and terrestrial (tropical forests, which are located on the mountain ranges close to the coast) function for storm protection. Thus, their conservation and restoration are effective and sustainable strategies that will help protect and develop the increasingly urbanized coasts.
Octavio Pérez-Maqueo; M. Luisa Martínez; Flor C. Sánchez-Barradas; Melanie Kolb. Assessing Nature-Based Coastal Protection against Disasters Derived from Extreme Hydrometeorological Events in Mexico. Sustainability 2018, 10, 1317 .
AMA StyleOctavio Pérez-Maqueo, M. Luisa Martínez, Flor C. Sánchez-Barradas, Melanie Kolb. Assessing Nature-Based Coastal Protection against Disasters Derived from Extreme Hydrometeorological Events in Mexico. Sustainability. 2018; 10 (5):1317.
Chicago/Turabian StyleOctavio Pérez-Maqueo; M. Luisa Martínez; Flor C. Sánchez-Barradas; Melanie Kolb. 2018. "Assessing Nature-Based Coastal Protection against Disasters Derived from Extreme Hydrometeorological Events in Mexico." Sustainability 10, no. 5: 1317.
Coastal tourism is expanding worldwide, mostly owing to the attraction to relevant ecosystem services such as the scenic beauty and recreational activities. The aim of this study was to analyze the value of these, using hedonic analysis by assessing how prices of hotel rooms are related to the scenic view, location, non-ecosystem amenities, and size of the hotels in three touristic areas of Veracruz, México. We found that, besides the size of the hotel and the number of non-ecosystem amenities, room prices increased by 8% and 57%, depending on the ocean view and accessibility to the beach, respectively. These results help to understand why hotels are built very close to the coastline, despite the high risk of extreme and frequent meteorological events. The unorganized and intense development of the tourist industry may act in contrast to the necessity for conservation of the natural ecosystems, rendering this activity highly unsustainable. The question is how to deal with the dilemma of tourism growth and conservation. We suggest some alternatives that might help with the conservation of natural ecosystems, while maintaining the combined provision of simultaneous coastal ecosystem services such as an aesthetically pleasing view and recreation, as well as additional services such as storm protection.
Gabriela Mendoza-González; M. Luisa Martínez; Roger Guevara; Octavio Pérez-Maqueo; María Cristina Garza-Lagler; Alan Howard. Towards a Sustainable Sun, Sea, and Sand Tourism: The Value of Ocean View and Proximity to the Coast. Sustainability 2018, 10, 1012 .
AMA StyleGabriela Mendoza-González, M. Luisa Martínez, Roger Guevara, Octavio Pérez-Maqueo, María Cristina Garza-Lagler, Alan Howard. Towards a Sustainable Sun, Sea, and Sand Tourism: The Value of Ocean View and Proximity to the Coast. Sustainability. 2018; 10 (4):1012.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGabriela Mendoza-González; M. Luisa Martínez; Roger Guevara; Octavio Pérez-Maqueo; María Cristina Garza-Lagler; Alan Howard. 2018. "Towards a Sustainable Sun, Sea, and Sand Tourism: The Value of Ocean View and Proximity to the Coast." Sustainability 10, no. 4: 1012.
The expansion of human activities and the impacts they have on the coast necessitate decision-making tools that consider ecological, physical and socioeconomic variables, including legal, administrative and technological aspects. This paper presents a group of diverse indicators, which are considered critical in determining management priorities in coastal zones. For a strip of land, five km wide from the coast, covering nine municipalities in Veracruz, Mexico, we analyzed the physical environment (coastal dynamics, alteration of sediment sources, beach and dune characteristics, sediment dynamics), the biological environment (species composition, structure of plant communities and aspects of the environmental performance of beaches, dunes, water bodies and wetlands), and socioeconomic conditions (human development index, total number of inhabitants, number of communities vulnerable to extreme weather events, the proportion of people living in rural areas, the number of hectares planted, and the economic value per hectare of that production, and the vulnerability of primary, secondary and tertiary economic sectors). A methodology was obtained to identify environmental problems and offer the best management options for each coastal cell. This paper gives fine detail of the work done in the nine coastal cells of one municipality and goes on to explain the final, integrated information in a table with three vulnerability conditions, shown in the map as the colors dark grey, light grey and white, for the 44 cells in all nine municipalities. The combined indicators serve as a decision-making tool in highlighting and listing the activities that should be favored, and which avoided, in the beach dune system there, as well as indicating any restrictions necessary. The proposed method, based on interdisciplinary analysis, provides the basis for a better decision-making process, which will enhance sustainability in coastal areas.
Patricia Moreno-Casasola; Rodolfo Silva; M. Luisa Martínez; Debora Lithgow; Edgar Mendoza; Rubí E. Martínez-Martínez; Ileana Espejel; Gabriela Vázquez; Jorge López-Portillo. Interdisciplinary Criteria and Indicators to Identify Priorities for Beach and Dune Management. Coastal Wetlands: Alteration and Remediation 2017, 635 -657.
AMA StylePatricia Moreno-Casasola, Rodolfo Silva, M. Luisa Martínez, Debora Lithgow, Edgar Mendoza, Rubí E. Martínez-Martínez, Ileana Espejel, Gabriela Vázquez, Jorge López-Portillo. Interdisciplinary Criteria and Indicators to Identify Priorities for Beach and Dune Management. Coastal Wetlands: Alteration and Remediation. 2017; ():635-657.
Chicago/Turabian StylePatricia Moreno-Casasola; Rodolfo Silva; M. Luisa Martínez; Debora Lithgow; Edgar Mendoza; Rubí E. Martínez-Martínez; Ileana Espejel; Gabriela Vázquez; Jorge López-Portillo. 2017. "Interdisciplinary Criteria and Indicators to Identify Priorities for Beach and Dune Management." Coastal Wetlands: Alteration and Remediation , no. : 635-657.