Multiple linear regression as complementary tool of ICAM for predictive analysis of water quality in the surface of neritic zone of San Andres Island, Colombia

This document analyzes historical data of the water quality on the surface neritic zone of San Andres Island and a statistical method of analysis complementary to the ICAM (Indicator of Marine and Estuarine Water Quality) is proposed, which facilitates the creation of future scenarios for the diagnosis of water quality. It was determined that most of the monitoring stations present in San Andres Island register a water quality that varies from acceptable to optimal except for two with inadequate quality. A series of equations is proposed that, depending on the behavior of the parameters from 1998 to 2014, make it possible to predict the possible future values of water quality for the superficial neritic zone, which can be used as an analysis tool or the starting point for the development of future scenarios that allow acting in a preventive and/or regulatory way.

Automated summary

The document analyzes historical data of the water quality on the surface neritic zone of San Andres Island and proposes a statistical analysis method complementary to ICAM, which can predict future water quality values. The majority of monitoring stations on San Andres Island were found to have water quality ranging from acceptable to optimal, except for two with inadequate quality. Proposed equations can be used as a tool for analysis or as a starting point for developing future scenarios to take preventive and/or regulatory actions.