Conversation so far:
Are there any other interesting aspects about this article?
Cotton (of the species Gossypium barbadense) likely provided the basis of the dominance of inland over coast (whether development was earlier, later, or contemporaneous).
What was their civilization like?
Norte Chico's development is particularly remarkable for the apparent absence of a staple food.

Question: Why is it remarkable?
Self-contained rewrite: Why is Norte Chico's development remarkable?