Agricultural landscapes and rural spatial configurations in the Peruvian Central Rainforest

The Peruvian Central Rainforest is a territory delimited by socio-cultural affinity and economic dynamics. The diversity of ecological zones in this territory has allowed agriculture to be the main activity of its rural population. This research seeks to analyse the factors that influence the spatial configuration of agricultural landscapes in the Peruvian Central Rainforest. The Río Negro district was selected as a case study to analyse three factors groups: settlements, ecosystems, and housing. Mapping, photo-interpretation, and field data collection were used to carry out the study. As a result, three types of agricultural landscapes have been identified, which include four modes of settlement organisation, three types of agricultural ecosystems, and eight types of agricultural housing. The discussion shows different heterogeneity levels in each type of agricultural landscape determined by the various configurations of its elements that should be considered for future territorial planning and studies in the Peruvian Central Rainforest.