The Albufera de València, a protected natural park, is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. However, in recent years, its ecosystem has shown progressive deterioration, possibly linked to pollution and climate change. To assess the impact of global warming on this ecosystem, the presence of Vibrio vulnificus, an aquatic zoonotic pathogen proposed as a biomarker of climate change, was investigated.

Methodology. To confirm its presence, evaluate its relationship with climate change, and determine its impact on public and animal health, seasonal sampling was carried out during 2022. The isolates obtained were characterized through genomic analysis and in vitro and ex vivo assays.

Results. The analyses revealed that V. vulnificus is present in the Albufera throughout the annual cycle, although it is not detected when the water temperature drops below 18°C. The isolated strains demonstrate the ability to adhere to mucous surfaces and form biofilms, but lack the necessary factors to invade tissues and cause vibriosis in fish. However, most isolates pose a risk to public health, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with metabolic diseases such as hemochromatosis and diabetes.

Conclusion. These findings suggest that global warming is altering the microbiota of the Albufera ecosystem, favoring the presence of opportunistic species with a potential impact on public health. The detection of V. vulnificus in this environment reinforces its role as a potential biomarker of climate change and underscores the importance of more comprehensive environmental monitoring.