GEOGRAPHY THROUGH MAPS
Peruvian guano coast
Peru’s coastal islands and headlands support seabird colonies nourished by productive nearby waters. Accumulated bird droppings, or guano, have long been used as fertiliser.
Fast Facts
- The guano islands and headlands lie off Peru’s dry Pacific coast.
- Anchoveta and other fish connect plankton production to seabirds.
- Aridity helps guano accumulate by limiting rain-driven loss of nutrients.
Connected lessons
- Peruvian guano coastMap, explanation and practice
- Why is the west coast so dry?Guided exploration
Geographical connections
- Humboldt CurrentRelated places
- Atacama DesertRelated places
- Coastal upwellingDepends on