DFC and Cuatrociénegas: history and thoughts about the future.

Authors: Dean Hendrickson

Year: 2025

Abstract

Over the last decade, evidence has accumulated that water level declines in Cuatrociénegas, the world’s most biodiverse spring-based wetland and an important Mexican desert biodiversity hotspot and protected area, are related to largescale groundwater-based agriculture in adjoining valleys that contribute to the aquifer that feeds its springs and wetlands. At the same time, the area has transformed into a popular tourism destination, with rapid and massive expansion of the hotel industry and visitation. However, two of the primary developers established non-profit foundations with conservation- and community-support objectives, and are working together with the Federal Reserve System (CONANP), local conservation groups, regional universities, and the municipal government to assure that development is sustainable and compatible with biodiversity conservation. Much remains unknown about basic ecology and genetics of its highly endemic and diverse fish fauna, its three endemic turtles (not to mention many other endemic herps, invertebrates and plants) and there are new initiatives working to support field and laboratory research, as well as establishment of captive breeding programs. Hydrogeology/karst aquifer expertise is obviously also important. The Desert Fishes Council (https://www.desertfishes.org/) meeting in Cuatrociénegas in November of this year will provide opportunities for others to learn more and possibly become involved.