Research Topics

We are conducting field and laboratory studies on Applied Ecology to conserve native species and biodiversity.

 

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Study on conservation ecology of endangered freshwater animal species

Many native species of freshwater animals are endangered due to factors such as the negative effects of river or agricultural channel improvements and predation or competitive exclusion by invasive species. To conserve such endangered native freshwater animals, we have to clarify the basic ecology (e.g., reproductive behavior and habitat preference) and then develop effective conservation methods. In our recent studies, we clarified the habitat preference of the endangered bitterling fish species (Rhodeus atremius suigensis; Fig. 1) in agricultural channels, and wintering site environment of the endangered Nagoya Daruma Pond Frog (Pelophylax porosus brevipodus) inhabiting paddy fields. Also, we have studied the effectiveness of restoration methods in agricultural channels for freshwater fish conservation.

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​​　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Fig. 1. An endangered bitterling fish (R. atremius suigensis).

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Study on ecology of invasive crayfish species and development of effective eradication methods

Invasive freshwater animal species have a negative impact on native species. Especially, the impact of invasive crayfish is strong. In our previous studies, the invasive North American crayfish species (Pacifastacus leniusculus) was shown to be able to cause species replacement for the endangered native Japanese crayfish species (Cambaroides japonicus) due to direct predation (Fig. 2) or in competition for preferred sized shelters. In the present study, we have tried to clarify the life cycle of the North American invasive crayfish species Procambarus clarkii inhabiting water areas in Japan and also to develop effective eradication methods.​​​

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 Fig. 2. An endangered Japanese crayfish (C. japonicus)

being preyed on by an invasive crayfish (P. leniusculus).

 

 

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Coexistence mechanisms among native, congenetic plant species

To clarify the coexistence mechanism of closely related plant species is challenging subject because they often share a very similar resource demand and reproductive biology. We have examined the coexistence mechanism between native Commelina species under pollinator-mediated competition via field observation, experiments of population genetics and theoritical models (Fig. 3).

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​​Fig. 3. Commelina communis (left) and C. communis f. ciliata (right)

 

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We welcome international students to join our laboratory of Applied Ecology at Okayama University for studying Master and Ph.D. degrees. To obtain more information, please send an e-mail to Prof. Kazuyoshi Nakata. The e-mail address of Prof. Nakata: nakatak[at]cc.okayama-u.ac.jp