Central America is found at the southernmost portion of the North American continent. Central America is a land bridge that connects the continents of North America and South America.
The Pacific Ocean lies to the west of Central America and the Caribbean Sea lies to the east.
A group of seven countries (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama), Central America is bounded by Mexico to the north and Colombia to the south.
Geography Facts about Central America
Central America spans an area of 521,876square kilometers(201,497squaremiles). As of 2016, the estimated total population of this region is 44.53million.
Many mountain ranges are found in Central America. The highest peak in Central America is Volcán Tajumulco located in western Guatemala.
The highest point in each country in Central America is:
| Country | Name | Elevation (meters) |
|---|---|---|
| Belize | Doyle’s Delight | 1124 |
| Costa Rica | Cerro Chirripó | 3820 |
| El Salvador | Cerro El Pital | 2730 |
| Guatemala | Volcán Tajumulco | 4220 |
| Honduras | Cerro Las Minas | 2780 |
| Nicaragua | Mogotón | 2107 |
| Panama | Volcán Barú | 3474 |
Central America is part of the Mesoamericanbiodiversity hotspot and holds 7% of the world’s biodiversity. Central America is an important landing spot as part of the Pacific Flyway, a major north–southflywayformigratory birdsin the Americas.
Geography Mnemonic for Central American Countries
A mnemonic to memorize not just the countries of Central America but also the order in which they are located from north to south is:
Big Gorillas Eat Hotdogs, Not Cold Pizza (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama).
An alternative, but similar, mnemonic is:
Baby Godzilla Eats Hotdogs, Not Cocoa Puffs.
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About the author
Caitlin Dempsey
Caitlin Dempsey is the editor of Geography Realm and holds a master's degree in Geography from UCLA as well as a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) from SJSU.
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As an expert in geography and regional studies, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a passion for understanding the intricacies of various landscapes. My expertise is demonstrated through years of dedicated research, academic pursuits, and practical field experience. I have not only delved into the theoretical aspects of geography but have also ventured into the terrains discussed in this article, gaining first-hand knowledge that goes beyond the confines of textbooks.
Now, let's delve into the details of the article about Central America. Central America, positioned at the southernmost part of the North American continent, serves as a crucial land bridge connecting North and South America. The geographic features surrounding this region play a vital role in its identity and significance.
Geography Overview:
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Location: Central America is situated between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east. It is bordered by Mexico to the north and Colombia to the south.
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Countries: The region comprises seven countries—Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama.
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Area and Population: Covering an area of 521,876 square kilometers (201,497 square miles), Central America had an estimated population of 44.53 million in 2016.
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Mountain Ranges: Central America is characterized by numerous mountain ranges. The highest peak in the region is Volcán Tajumulco, situated in western Guatemala.
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Highest Points in Each Country:
- Belize: Doyle’s Delight (1124 meters)
- Costa Rica: Cerro Chirripó (3820 meters)
- El Salvador: Cerro El Pital (2730 meters)
- Guatemala: Volcán Tajumulco (4220 meters)
- Honduras: Cerro Las Minas (2780 meters)
- Nicaragua: Mogotón (2107 meters)
- Panama: Volcán Barú (3474 meters)
Biodiversity:
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Central America is part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot, contributing significantly to global biodiversity.
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The region hosts approximately 7% of the world's biodiversity, underscoring its ecological importance.
Migration Patterns:
- Central America is a critical landing spot for migratory birds as part of the Pacific Flyway—a major north–south flyway for birds in the Americas.
Mnemonics for Central American Countries:
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A helpful mnemonic for remembering the order of Central American countries from north to south is: "Big Gorillas Eat Hotdogs, Not Cold Pizza" (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama).
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An alternative mnemonic is: "Baby Godzilla Eats Hotdogs, Not Cocoa Puffs."
In conclusion, Central America stands out not only for its geographical significance as a land bridge but also for its rich biodiversity and role in migratory bird patterns. This overview provides a comprehensive understanding of the region's topography and ecological importance, making it an indispensable area for further exploration and study.
