Sulawesi Island

Category: World Geography & Biodiversity | GS Paper I

SEO Title: Sulawesi Island: Location, Wallacea, Endemic Species and Ancient Rock Art

UPSC Notes

Sulawesi, formerly known as Celebes, is an Indonesian island known for its distinctive geography, biodiversity and archaeological discoveries.

  • Country: Indonesia.

  • Shape: Characteristic K-shaped island with four major peninsulas.

  • Equator: Passes through the island.

  • Major city: Makassar.

  • Biogeographical region: Wallacea, between the Wallace and Lydekker lines.

  • Endemic fauna: Anoa, babirusa, tarsiers and the maleo bird.

  • Archaeology: The Maros–Pangkep karst region contains important prehistoric rock art.

  • Leang Karampuang: The source cites a figurative scene dated to at least 51,200 years in research reported during 2024–25.

  • Geological hazards: Seismic activity, illustrated by the 2018 Palu earthquake and tsunami.

  • Economic activities: Nickel mining, cocoa cultivation and seaweed production.

Key Pointers for Prelims

  • Sulawesi is part of Indonesia.

  • Wallacea is a biogeographical transition region with high endemism.

  • Makassar is a major city on Sulawesi.

  • The island is important for prehistoric rock-art research and nickel production.