Evaluación del estado de conservación de seis humedales presentes en la subcuenca hidrográfica del río Ocoa (Villavicencio, Meta), mediante la aplicación de un índice de integridad biótica basado en anuros

Abstract

The Ocoa River sub-basin, located in Villavicencio, Meta, comprises 30 micro-watersheds and 42 surface water bodies, including wetlands that play a relevant role in providing habitats for biodiversity and supplying water for human consumption and economic activities. However, these wetlands face significant challenges due to urbanization, pollution, alterations in land use, and additionally, the lack of systematic monitoring, which limits the early detection of disturbances and the implementation of effective management strategies. The general objective of this research was to evaluate the conservation status of six wetlands within the Ocoa River sub-basin (Villavicencio, Meta) through the application of a index of biotic integrity (IBI) based on anuran communities. To achieve this objective, the specific aims were to analyze anuran species richness in the wetlands Aguas Claras, Calatrava, Caracolí, Charco Oasis, Coroncoro, and Zuria; estimate conservation coefficients for the recorded species; and apply the IBI to determine the conservation status of the selected wetlands and propose recommendations for their management and preservation. A quantitative approach with a correlational design was employed, using visual encounter surveys of anurans conducted during diurnal and nocturnal sampling periods. The data obtained allowed for the calculation of the IBI and the conservation coefficients of the species present. The results revealed variability in the conservation status of the evaluated wetlands. A total of 20 anuran species were recorded, with Caracolí wetland exhibiting the highest species richness, followed by Zuria and Aguas Claras, while Charco Oasis and Coroncoro showed the lowest species richness. IBI values ranged from 17.36 to 21.53, with Caracolí presenting the highest value. Standardized index values (aIBIs) ranged between 74.80 and 92.77. The presence of species such as Boana lanciformis, Leptodactylus mystaceus, and Boana punctata was a determining factor in wetlands with higher conservation values. The study concludes that species richness alone is not a sufficient indicator of wetland conservation status. Instead, factors such as habitat quality, ecological heterogeneity, and the presence of species sensitive to disturbance are decisive. Conservation efforts should prioritize wetlands such as Caracolí and Zuria, which exhibit better ecological conditions, while others such as Calatrava and Charco Oasis require restoration actions. It is recommended to implement a participatory monitoring model involving local communities, promoting environmental education and community-based surveillance. Additionally, incorporating the IBI into wetland management policies is recommended to ensure long-term sustainability and the conservation of local biodiversity.