Total Hydrocarbons in Intertidal Interstitial Water of Sandy Beaches of the Central Region of Veracruz

Sandy beaches in the Central Region of Veracruz (RCV) face constant anthropogenic pressure from port and urban activities. This study aimed to evaluate total hydrocar-bon (TH) concentrations in the intertidal interstitial water of five beaches in the RCV, analyzing their variability by depth (15 and 30 cm) and seasonality (northerly winds, dry, and rainy seasons). TH determination was performed using gas chromatography (GC-FID), following the NMX-AA-117-SCFI-2001 and NOM-138-SEMARNAT/SSA1-2012 standards. Results showed concentrations ranging from 0.86 to 6.53 µg L⁻¹. Significant spatial differences were identified (p < 0.05); An-tepuerto beach presented the highest levels due to its proximity to the port, while Far-allón showed the lowest concentrations, confirming its role as a reference site. No sig-nificant variations were detected by depth or season (p > 0.05), indicating temporal stability associated with continuous anthropogenic inputs. Although levels comply with Mexican regulations, the continuous presence of TH represents a potential risk to benthic biota and the integrity of the Veracruz Reef System (SAV). This study pro-vides a critical baseline for strengthening coastal ecosystem management strategies in the Gulf of Mexico.