Although not all E. coli bacteria represent a danger to humans, the ones detected in the area's cenotes may cause symptoms such as diarrhea, urinary tract infections, as well as respiratory disease.
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The Yucatán Peninsula has almost no rivers and only a few lakes, and those are often marshy. The widely distributed cenotes are the only perennial source of potable water and have long been the principal source of water in much of the region.
This week, tourists have been warned to take precautions when visiting cenotes in the Mexican-Caribbean, after E Coli bacteria were found in 6 of the most-visited spots. The cenotes with the highest rate of bacterial infection were found in Tulum, at the Cristal, Calavera and Casa Cenotes.
Marine Microbiologist here...the cenotes are springfed and come up at ~77°. It's too cold and there's not enough muck for amoeba to thrive. Stagnant lakes/ponds are their main habitat.
Most cave cenotes have fresh water that has been meticulously filtered by the earth, making them so clear and pure that you can see straight through to small fish frolicking amidst the plant life below.
The water is fresh and so clean that even your hair and skin feel different after taking a dip. It has been said that the waters possess healing properties. Perhaps it is the tranquility and nature that heal as well!
The fresh water from inland cenotes meets the Caribbean Sea in a km length 'c' shaped lagoon. The brackish water, a mix of fresh and salt water, is the perfect breeding ground for salt and fresh water fish, mangrove and in days gone by manatees.
Cenotes, those mesmerizing natural sinkholes found in the Yucatán Peninsula, are more than just breathtaking geological formations. They are sacred places, revered by the Mayans, and believed to possess the healing powers of cenotes. Among these natural wonders, Cenote IK KIL stands as a prime example of nature's spa.
Mexican eco-parks make it easy to swim in cenotes with kids. These cenotes near Playa del Carmen are well maintained, have adequate lighting and have staircases built in to allow easy entrance. Many of these cenotes will also have a change area.
Cenote AngelitaThose who dive it descend into a thick layer of hydrogen sulfide that hangs out at about 30 meters. The gas gives off a strong smell of rotten eggs—so strong it can be smelled even underwater.
Flora and Fauna of the cenotesFlora and fauna of a cenote are unique. There are species of fish such as guppy and catfish, as well as some varieties of marine crustaceans.
Also, you cannot wear regular sunscreen or bug repellent when visiting the cenotes. You MUST wear an organic, reef friendly sunscreen from companies like Sun Bum.
Bull sharks can also swim in freshwater and seek its feeling. They are drawn to the freshwater cenotes pump out into the sea nearby the dive site and also the abundant food supply of fish and turtles in the area. Don't miss this amazing experience and enjoy diving with bull sharks in Mexico.