Puerto Mosquito Bay in Vieques has seen a gradual drop in its bioluminescence since July and is now in its third blackout of this century. Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA) Secretary Waldemar Quiles said in written statements that agency technical staff have been evaluating a possible drop in bioluminescence measurements since July. He called it a matter of great importance that the agency will treat with the agility it requires, describing the bay as one of the most beautiful in the world whose ecological diversity is essential.
Vieques Mayor José Corcino Acevedo said he has been in constant contact with DRNA, especially Undersecretary Nelson Cruz, and expects an agency delegation on Sunday and Monday to investigate and inspect. Corcino Acevedo said he is truly worried, calling the bay the number-one attraction drawing visitors to Vieques. He said the current months are low tourist season and tourists are still arriving.
Staff of the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust told him it may be a natural cycle. He hopes the bay recovers by November, when holiday tourism rises. Biologist Airamzul Cabral Guadalupe, who leads the Trust’s plankton counts, said earlier blackouts occurred in 2014, linked to unusual weather, strong north winds and changes in tides and currents, which led to weekly plankton monitoring and a swimming ban, and after Hurricane Maria, when organisms were not seen for about seven months. The bay recovered both times.