Chetumal Savanna Faces Extinction Threats from Invasive Species and Maya Train

The Chetumal Savanna, a body of water stretching 15 kilometers long and situated just 4 meters above sea level, is under threat of extinction. The College of Biologists warns that this is due to the rapid spread of invasive species and the potential impact of infrastructure projects such as the Maya Train. They stress the need for immediate conservation measures to prevent the savanna from drying up.

Ruty Carlos Buenfi Magaña, the president of the College of Biologists, highlighted the dangers facing this body of water. One of the primary threats is the lechuguilla plant, an aquatic species that has spread rapidly, covering vast areas of the savanna. Initially, there were control programs to handle this plant, but when resources ran out, the lechuguilla expanded again. This plant increases evaporation and reduces water quality by decreasing oxygenation, thus speeding up the drying process.

The accumulation and decomposition of organic matter, including lechuguilla remains, contribute to the hardening of sediments at the bottom of the water. This process obstructs the water flow and impedes the natural regeneration of the ecosystem. If not dealt with, the savanna could lose its capacity to sustain aquatic life and could eventually dry out completely.

The Maya Train project is another cause for concern. The College of Biologists suggests that construction activities involving the use of stony material near the water body could disrupt the savanna's water dynamics. Ground intervention could affect soil permeability, potentially worsening the drying process. Without a proper management plan, this ecosystem could become a dry area in the coming years.

The Chetumal Savanna, located northwest of Chetumal city, borders several human settlements, from the Calderitas ejido to the vicinity of the Southern Border Regional Fair. The savanna varies in width along its 15-kilometer length, with sections ranging from 300 meters to 100 meters, and a maximum depth of 4 meters. It also has a natural south-to-north runoff that connects to Chetumal Bay and is part of the Bacalar lagoon system. This ecosystem is home to a rich biodiversity, including various bird species, iguanas, crocodiles, fish, and two species of mangrove, all of which rely on this body of water for their survival.

To halt further deterioration of the Chetumal Savanna, experts stress the need for an urgent and coordinated conservation plan involving government institutions, environmental, and academic organizations. It is crucial to renew efforts to sustainably eradicate lechuguilla, monitor the impacts of the Maya Train, and safeguard the natural flow of the water body.