Guano

ecology

Definition

Guano is the accumulated excrement of seabirds, including penguins, and it plays a surprisingly important ecological role. Penguin guano is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, fertilising coastal and marine ecosystems. Large colonies can deposit enough guano to alter local soil chemistry and promote plant growth on otherwise barren sub-Antarctic islands. Historically, guano was harvested commercially from African penguin colonies, and the removal of deep guano layers destroyed the burrowing habitat these penguins depend on for nesting.

Related Terms

A penguin colony (also called a rookery) is a breeding aggregation that can range from a few dozen pairs to over a million individuals.

Many penguin species build nests from pebbles, sticks, grass, or other available materials to elevate eggs above cold or wet ground.

Related Species

Species where guano is especially relevant.

African Penguin Humboldt Penguin

Frequently Asked Questions

What does guano mean in penguin biology?

Guano is the accumulated excrement of seabirds, including penguins, and it plays a surprisingly important ecological role. Penguin guano is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, fertilising coastal and marine ecosystems. Large colonies can deposit enough guano to alter local soil chemistry and promote plant growth on otherwise barren sub-Antarctic islands. Historically, guano was harvested commercially from African penguin colonies, and the removal of deep guano layers destroyed the burrowing habitat these penguins depend on for nesting.

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