Lagoon La Mancha

 lake, interesting place

La Mancha is located in the coastal plains of the Gulf of Mexico in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, with a surface area of 1,567 square km. Hydrologically, it presents three areas: The north body which has partial communication with the marine waters of the gulf through an ephemeral sand barrier that usually closes during the characteristic “Nortes” or North winds season. A middle area known as El Crucero, considered a mixing zone and characterized by its narrowness. Finally, a south body marked by a strong continental influence given by El Caño Grande, a permanent stream. The opening and closing of the barrier has a great influence in the depth and water levels of the lagoon. Low productivity levels, turbid water and low water volume are characteristic of prolonged closings. The barrier action also influences salinity levels and temperatures, which can range from 5.7 to 17.1 parts per thousand and 17 to 32 degrees Celsius, respectively, during long closings, and reach salinities up to 35 parts per thousand during openings.