Patarcocha (Ancash) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Patarcocha |
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 Patarcocha
Location in Peru
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| Location | Peru Ancash Region |
| Coordinates | 9°12′40″S 77°21′30″W / 9.21111°S 77.35833°W |
| Max. length | 259 m (850 ft) |
| Max. width | 147 m (482 ft) |
| Surface elevation | 3,900 m (12,800 ft) |
Patarcocha is a beautiful lake located high up in the Andes mountains of Peru. It's part of the stunning Cordillera Blanca, a mountain range known for its tall, snowy peaks. This lake is found in the Ancash Region, specifically in the Asunción Province and Chacas District.
Patarcocha sits at a very high elevation of about 3,900 meters (or 12,795 feet) above sea level. It's not a huge lake, measuring about 259 meters (850 feet) long and 147 meters (482 feet) at its widest point. The name "Patarcocha" might come from the Quechua language, where "qucha" means lake.
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Where is Patarcocha Located?
Patarcocha is nestled in the central part of Peru, within the Ancash Region. This region is famous for its incredible mountain landscapes and many lakes. The lake is part of the Cordillera Blanca, which is the highest tropical mountain range in the world. It's a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
Nearby Lakes and Geography
Patarcocha is surrounded by other interesting lakes in the area. To its northwest, you can find lakes like Yanacocha, Huegroncocha, and Runtococha. These lakes are often formed by glaciers and are known for their clear, cold waters. The area around Patarcocha is a high-altitude environment, meaning it has unique plants and animals adapted to the cold and thin air.
Why are High-Altitude Lakes Important?
Lakes like Patarcocha are very important for several reasons. They often provide fresh water for local communities and wildlife. They also play a role in the local ecosystem, supporting various types of plants and animals that can survive in these harsh conditions. These lakes are also important for scientific study, helping us understand climate change and how mountain environments are affected.
Unique Mountain Environment
The Cordillera Blanca where Patarcocha is located is a special place. It's home to many glaciers, which are large bodies of ice that slowly move. As these glaciers melt, they feed the rivers and lakes in the region, including Patarcocha. The mountains also have unique plants, like the Puya raimondii, a giant plant that can grow very tall. You might also see animals like the Andean condor flying high above the peaks.
See also
- In Spanish: Patarcocha para niños
