Project RLA 7026: Evaluation of organic and inorganic environmental pollution in aquatic ecosystems of Latin America and the Caribbean, and its impact on the risk of cyanobacteria producing cyanotoxins.

The project focuses on evaluating blooms of cyanobacteria producing cyanotoxins (Cyanobacteria Harmful Algal Blooms, CianoHABs) in aquatic ecosystems of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Using microscopic and molecular techniques, the composition of cyanobacteria will be identified, and nuclear and isotopic technologies will be applied to characterize pollutants, particularly those of agricultural origin, that promote their proliferation. The results will provide a diagnosis of the trophic state of the water and the pollution factors driving the growth of these toxic cyanobacteria. This will enable the development of prevention and management strategies, minimizing risks to human and environmental health. Additionally, the project will strengthen technological and human capacities in the region, establishing resources to carry out monitoring programs and environmental assessments with a specific focus on CianoHABs. This project brings together 22 countries from the LAC region. Ecuador's case study will focus on evaluating Yaguarcocha Lake, which will serve as a model for implementing these techniques in other ecosystems across the country.

Contribute to the governance and sustainable management of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

• Strengthen technical and technological capacities to establish appropriate environmental assessments and monitoring programs, focusing on cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) in aquatic ecosystems in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).
• Implement standard sampling and analysis techniques and procedures for water quality and trophic state assessment, focusing on CyanoHABs in the LAC region.
• Conduct a study to assess water quality and trophic state, focusing on CyanoHABs, at Lake Yaguarcocha, Ecuador.