The Pacific Ocean and El Niño effect in Peru

Inca Civilization

The Inca civilization was the largest Pre-Columbian civilization in the Americas and Cusco was its capital. The best kept example of its architecture is Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

The Sacred City is one of the most significant archeological sites left by the Incas

Culture

Fascinating culture and Inca heritage of this beautiful country

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. It occupies an important place in Inca mythology.

Animals of Peru

Animals in Peru have specialized and adapted to the conditions of its geography. At higher altitude levels, few animals and plants can survive because of the lack of oxygen.

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The Pacific Ocean and El Niño effect in Peru

Submitted by Staff writer |

The cold water of the Pacific Ocean brought by the Humboldt current, makes its water rich in plankton which supports a rich variety of fish and marine animals as well as birds who feed from the fish. Fish and its byproducts are an important source of economic activity in the coast and an important part of food resource for the local population.

Every few years a stream of warm water originating in the equator flows south, warming the cold waters that support the plankton. When the plankton dies, fish stock decreases therefore bringing death to marine animals. Some of these animals such as the Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and turtles are in danger of extinction; they also affect the population of migrating birds. This phenomenon is known by Peruvians as El Niño, named after Baby Jesus because it happens in December at around Christmas.

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Peru Geography – The Coast

The coast covers about 10% of the territory but is home to more than 50% of the population.

Lima Peru

Lima, the capital of Peru, is located in the coast bordering the Pacific Ocean. It is the largest city in the country and over eight million people call Lima home.

Peru Geography – Pacific Ocean and El Niño effect

The cold water of the Pacific Ocean brought by the Humboldt current, makes its water rich in plankton which supports a rich variety of fish and marine animals as well as birds who feed from the fish.

Peru Geography – The Andes

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Peru Geography – Amazon River

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