Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research -

Assessment of the impact of microplastics in the coral reef environment on coral disease

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2024.04  -  2026.03 

Direct: 2,500,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 3,250,000 (YEN)  Total: 750,000 (YEN)

Assessment of the impact of microplastics in the coral reef environment on coral disease

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2024.04  -  2026.03 

Direct: 2,500,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 3,250,000 (YEN)  Total: 750,000 (YEN)

Assessment of the impact of microplastics in the coral reef environment on coral disease

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2024.04  -  2026.03 

Direct: 2,500,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 3,250,000 (YEN)  Total: 750,000 (YEN)

Assessment of the impact of microplastics in the coral reef environment on coral disease

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2024.04  -  2026.03 

Direct: 2,500,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 3,250,000 (YEN)  Total: 750,000 (YEN)

Assessment of the impact of microplastics in the coral reef environment on coral disease

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2024.04  -  2026.03 

Direct: 2,500,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 3,250,000 (YEN)  Total: 750,000 (YEN)

Assessing the impact of coral reef microplastics on coral disease incidence

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2023.04  -  2026.03 

Direct: 6,000,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 7,800,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,800,000 (YEN)

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Investigator(s): SAKAI Kazuhiko 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

In this study, we comprehensively examined whether reef-building corals vulnerable to high temperatures, which are strongly affected by the progression of global warming, can improve their high-temperature tolerance through field surveys, aquarium experiments, and genetic analyses. The results showed that (1) high-temperature tolerance was improved in one year of naturally growing corals, (2) the gene composition related to methylation differed in the same coral species depending on the temperature environment of the reef where they grew, (3) bleaching caused by abnormally high water temperatures in low latitude islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago reduced the abundance ratio of corals in the genus Acropora, (4) temperature and zooxanthellae alter methylation of coral-zooxanthella holobiont, and (5) microorganisms coexisting with corals might affect the high-temperature tolerance of corals.

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Investigator(s): SAKAI Kazuhiko 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

In this study, we comprehensively examined whether reef-building corals vulnerable to high temperatures, which are strongly affected by the progression of global warming, can improve their high-temperature tolerance through field surveys, aquarium experiments, and genetic analyses. The results showed that (1) high-temperature tolerance was improved in one year of naturally growing corals, (2) the gene composition related to methylation differed in the same coral species depending on the temperature environment of the reef where they grew, (3) bleaching caused by abnormally high water temperatures in low latitude islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago reduced the abundance ratio of corals in the genus Acropora, (4) temperature and zooxanthellae alter methylation of coral-zooxanthella holobiont, and (5) microorganisms coexisting with corals might affect the high-temperature tolerance of corals.

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Investigator(s): SAKAI Kazuhiko 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

In this study, we comprehensively examined whether reef-building corals vulnerable to high temperatures, which are strongly affected by the progression of global warming, can improve their high-temperature tolerance through field surveys, aquarium experiments, and genetic analyses. The results showed that (1) high-temperature tolerance was improved in one year of naturally growing corals, (2) the gene composition related to methylation differed in the same coral species depending on the temperature environment of the reef where they grew, (3) bleaching caused by abnormally high water temperatures in low latitude islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago reduced the abundance ratio of corals in the genus Acropora, (4) temperature and zooxanthellae alter methylation of coral-zooxanthella holobiont, and (5) microorganisms coexisting with corals might affect the high-temperature tolerance of corals.

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Investigator(s): SAKAI Kazuhiko 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

In this study, we comprehensively examined whether reef-building corals vulnerable to high temperatures, which are strongly affected by the progression of global warming, can improve their high-temperature tolerance through field surveys, aquarium experiments, and genetic analyses. The results showed that (1) high-temperature tolerance was improved in one year of naturally growing corals, (2) the gene composition related to methylation differed in the same coral species depending on the temperature environment of the reef where they grew, (3) bleaching caused by abnormally high water temperatures in low latitude islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago reduced the abundance ratio of corals in the genus Acropora, (4) temperature and zooxanthellae alter methylation of coral-zooxanthella holobiont, and (5) microorganisms coexisting with corals might affect the high-temperature tolerance of corals.

Comprehensive studies on improvement of heat tolerance in reef corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2019.04  -  2023.03 

Investigator(s): SAKAI Kazuhiko 

Direct: 34,800,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 45,240,000 (YEN)  Total: 10,440,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

In this study, we comprehensively examined whether reef-building corals vulnerable to high temperatures, which are strongly affected by the progression of global warming, can improve their high-temperature tolerance through field surveys, aquarium experiments, and genetic analyses. The results showed that (1) high-temperature tolerance was improved in one year of naturally growing corals, (2) the gene composition related to methylation differed in the same coral species depending on the temperature environment of the reef where they grew, (3) bleaching caused by abnormally high water temperatures in low latitude islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago reduced the abundance ratio of corals in the genus Acropora, (4) temperature and zooxanthellae alter methylation of coral-zooxanthella holobiont, and (5) microorganisms coexisting with corals might affect the high-temperature tolerance of corals.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2022.03 

Total: 4,420,000 (YEN)

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

Stability and responses to disturbances of scleractinia communities among Nansei Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Based on the dive surveys at more than 100 sites around the Islands of Yakushima, Amami, Yoron, Okinawa, Kerama, Kume, Tarama and Sekisei lagoon during the 3 years of research, coral communities at the Southern Ryukyu area are severely damaged by major disturbance of 2016 mass bleaching event. There is almost no recovery detected among these damaged reefs in the area. On the contrary, the coral communities at Middle Ryukyu to Northern Ryukyu area showed consistent stable or increasing pattern of coral cover with stable recruitments during the period. This may suggest that the increasing trend of variation in coral community structure among Southern, Middle and Northern Ryukyu area. In addition, there are significant differences in micro plastics contamination of sandy bottoms among Yaeyama, Tarama, Okinawa and Kerama area.

Stability and responses to disturbances of scleractinia communities among Nansei Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Based on the dive surveys at more than 100 sites around the Islands of Yakushima, Amami, Yoron, Okinawa, Kerama, Kume, Tarama and Sekisei lagoon during the 3 years of research, coral communities at the Southern Ryukyu area are severely damaged by major disturbance of 2016 mass bleaching event. There is almost no recovery detected among these damaged reefs in the area. On the contrary, the coral communities at Middle Ryukyu to Northern Ryukyu area showed consistent stable or increasing pattern of coral cover with stable recruitments during the period. This may suggest that the increasing trend of variation in coral community structure among Southern, Middle and Northern Ryukyu area. In addition, there are significant differences in micro plastics contamination of sandy bottoms among Yaeyama, Tarama, Okinawa and Kerama area.

Stability and responses to disturbances of scleractinia communities among Nansei Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Based on the dive surveys at more than 100 sites around the Islands of Yakushima, Amami, Yoron, Okinawa, Kerama, Kume, Tarama and Sekisei lagoon during the 3 years of research, coral communities at the Southern Ryukyu area are severely damaged by major disturbance of 2016 mass bleaching event. There is almost no recovery detected among these damaged reefs in the area. On the contrary, the coral communities at Middle Ryukyu to Northern Ryukyu area showed consistent stable or increasing pattern of coral cover with stable recruitments during the period. This may suggest that the increasing trend of variation in coral community structure among Southern, Middle and Northern Ryukyu area. In addition, there are significant differences in micro plastics contamination of sandy bottoms among Yaeyama, Tarama, Okinawa and Kerama area.

Stability and responses to disturbances of scleractinia communities among Nansei Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Based on the dive surveys at more than 100 sites around the Islands of Yakushima, Amami, Yoron, Okinawa, Kerama, Kume, Tarama and Sekisei lagoon during the 3 years of research, coral communities at the Southern Ryukyu area are severely damaged by major disturbance of 2016 mass bleaching event. There is almost no recovery detected among these damaged reefs in the area. On the contrary, the coral communities at Middle Ryukyu to Northern Ryukyu area showed consistent stable or increasing pattern of coral cover with stable recruitments during the period. This may suggest that the increasing trend of variation in coral community structure among Southern, Middle and Northern Ryukyu area. In addition, there are significant differences in micro plastics contamination of sandy bottoms among Yaeyama, Tarama, Okinawa and Kerama area.

Stability and responses to disturbances of scleractinia communities among Nansei Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(C)

Project Year: 2018.04  -  2021.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,420,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,020,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Based on the dive surveys at more than 100 sites around the Islands of Yakushima, Amami, Yoron, Okinawa, Kerama, Kume, Tarama and Sekisei lagoon during the 3 years of research, coral communities at the Southern Ryukyu area are severely damaged by major disturbance of 2016 mass bleaching event. There is almost no recovery detected among these damaged reefs in the area. On the contrary, the coral communities at Middle Ryukyu to Northern Ryukyu area showed consistent stable or increasing pattern of coral cover with stable recruitments during the period. This may suggest that the increasing trend of variation in coral community structure among Southern, Middle and Northern Ryukyu area. In addition, there are significant differences in micro plastics contamination of sandy bottoms among Yaeyama, Tarama, Okinawa and Kerama area.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2017.04  -  2020.03 

Study on Integrated Coastal Resource Management and Inhabitant Participation Mechanism for Coral Reef Conservation: To Create Management System for Addressing Regional Problem

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2017.04  -  2020.03 

Direct: 13,200,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 17,160,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,960,000 (YEN)

Study on Integrated Coastal Resource Management and Inhabitant Participation Mechanism for Coral Reef Conservation: To Create Management System for Addressing Regional Problem

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2017.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki 

Direct: 13,200,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 17,160,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,960,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

About the deterioration of coral reef in Yoron Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, by field survey we clarified the current situation of coral reef and those eutrophication, notably accumulated phosphorus in which phosphate accumulates in the calcareous sand of seabed. Then, we found high phosphate concentrations in seawater from accumulated phosphorus clearly inhibit the skeletal formation of coral juveniles and interrupt the recovery of coral reef. And we elucidated the dynamics of chemical fertilizer, which is one of the major factor of eutrophication, by sulfur/nitrogen stable isotope ratio analysis. About marine protected area by community-based management in the Philippine, which is useful to think coral reef conservation in Japan, we investigated the actual situation of residents' participation in MPA management that influences the conservation performance. We clarified the importance of social capital as the trust in the community through fishery household survey by random sampling.

Study on Integrated Coastal Resource Management and Inhabitant Participation Mechanism for Coral Reef Conservation: To Create Management System for Addressing Regional Problem

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2017.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki 

Direct: 13,200,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 17,160,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,960,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

About the deterioration of coral reef in Yoron Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, by field survey we clarified the current situation of coral reef and those eutrophication, notably accumulated phosphorus in which phosphate accumulates in the calcareous sand of seabed. Then, we found high phosphate concentrations in seawater from accumulated phosphorus clearly inhibit the skeletal formation of coral juveniles and interrupt the recovery of coral reef. And we elucidated the dynamics of chemical fertilizer, which is one of the major factor of eutrophication, by sulfur/nitrogen stable isotope ratio analysis. About marine protected area by community-based management in the Philippine, which is useful to think coral reef conservation in Japan, we investigated the actual situation of residents' participation in MPA management that influences the conservation performance. We clarified the importance of social capital as the trust in the community through fishery household survey by random sampling.

Study on Integrated Coastal Resource Management and Inhabitant Participation Mechanism for Coral Reef Conservation: To Create Management System for Addressing Regional Problem

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2017.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki 

Direct: 13,200,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 17,160,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,960,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

About the deterioration of coral reef in Yoron Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, by field survey we clarified the current situation of coral reef and those eutrophication, notably accumulated phosphorus in which phosphate accumulates in the calcareous sand of seabed. Then, we found high phosphate concentrations in seawater from accumulated phosphorus clearly inhibit the skeletal formation of coral juveniles and interrupt the recovery of coral reef. And we elucidated the dynamics of chemical fertilizer, which is one of the major factor of eutrophication, by sulfur/nitrogen stable isotope ratio analysis. About marine protected area by community-based management in the Philippine, which is useful to think coral reef conservation in Japan, we investigated the actual situation of residents' participation in MPA management that influences the conservation performance. We clarified the importance of social capital as the trust in the community through fishery household survey by random sampling.

Study on Integrated Coastal Resource Management and Inhabitant Participation Mechanism for Coral Reef Conservation: To Create Management System for Addressing Regional Problem

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2017.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki 

Direct: 13,200,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 17,160,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,960,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

About the deterioration of coral reef in Yoron Island, Kagoshima Prefecture, by field survey we clarified the current situation of coral reef and those eutrophication, notably accumulated phosphorus in which phosphate accumulates in the calcareous sand of seabed. Then, we found high phosphate concentrations in seawater from accumulated phosphorus clearly inhibit the skeletal formation of coral juveniles and interrupt the recovery of coral reef. And we elucidated the dynamics of chemical fertilizer, which is one of the major factor of eutrophication, by sulfur/nitrogen stable isotope ratio analysis. About marine protected area by community-based management in the Philippine, which is useful to think coral reef conservation in Japan, we investigated the actual situation of residents' participation in MPA management that influences the conservation performance. We clarified the importance of social capital as the trust in the community through fishery household survey by random sampling.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Harii Saki 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems are considered as refuges for shallow corals from bleaching and expected to act as a larval source for recovery for shallow reefs. In this study, we examined larval recruitment and adaptation from deep to shallow, genetic structures between depths, and deep environments to reveal shallow reef recovery potential from the mesophotic coral, Seriatopora hystrix. We found that reproductive seasons are shorter with increasing depth, suggesting less opportunity for larval recruitment. The species did not recruit nor survive in shallow water conditions. On the other hand, they recruit mid-water, deep depths or shaded condition in shallow, and partially grew. High genetic diversity was observed in this species for all depths with no clear partitioning of haplotypes among depths/locations. Overall, we suggest that mesophotic larvae of this species may not recruit directly to shallow water, but recruit and recover slowly via mid-water depth as stepping stone.

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Harii Saki 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems are considered as refuges for shallow corals from bleaching and expected to act as a larval source for recovery for shallow reefs. In this study, we examined larval recruitment and adaptation from deep to shallow, genetic structures between depths, and deep environments to reveal shallow reef recovery potential from the mesophotic coral, Seriatopora hystrix. We found that reproductive seasons are shorter with increasing depth, suggesting less opportunity for larval recruitment. The species did not recruit nor survive in shallow water conditions. On the other hand, they recruit mid-water, deep depths or shaded condition in shallow, and partially grew. High genetic diversity was observed in this species for all depths with no clear partitioning of haplotypes among depths/locations. Overall, we suggest that mesophotic larvae of this species may not recruit directly to shallow water, but recruit and recover slowly via mid-water depth as stepping stone.

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Harii Saki 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems are considered as refuges for shallow corals from bleaching and expected to act as a larval source for recovery for shallow reefs. In this study, we examined larval recruitment and adaptation from deep to shallow, genetic structures between depths, and deep environments to reveal shallow reef recovery potential from the mesophotic coral, Seriatopora hystrix. We found that reproductive seasons are shorter with increasing depth, suggesting less opportunity for larval recruitment. The species did not recruit nor survive in shallow water conditions. On the other hand, they recruit mid-water, deep depths or shaded condition in shallow, and partially grew. High genetic diversity was observed in this species for all depths with no clear partitioning of haplotypes among depths/locations. Overall, we suggest that mesophotic larvae of this species may not recruit directly to shallow water, but recruit and recover slowly via mid-water depth as stepping stone.

Twilight zone- a key for coral reef recovery: vertical connectivity and depth adaptation of corals

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2016.04  -  2020.03 

Investigator(s): Harii Saki 

Direct: 31,600,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 41,080,000 (YEN)  Total: 9,480,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems are considered as refuges for shallow corals from bleaching and expected to act as a larval source for recovery for shallow reefs. In this study, we examined larval recruitment and adaptation from deep to shallow, genetic structures between depths, and deep environments to reveal shallow reef recovery potential from the mesophotic coral, Seriatopora hystrix. We found that reproductive seasons are shorter with increasing depth, suggesting less opportunity for larval recruitment. The species did not recruit nor survive in shallow water conditions. On the other hand, they recruit mid-water, deep depths or shaded condition in shallow, and partially grew. High genetic diversity was observed in this species for all depths with no clear partitioning of haplotypes among depths/locations. Overall, we suggest that mesophotic larvae of this species may not recruit directly to shallow water, but recruit and recover slowly via mid-water depth as stepping stone.

Global environmental change reconstruction based on coral skeletal records around Japanese Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2015.04  -  2019.03 

Investigator(s): Suzuki Atsushi, Okai Takashi, Ishimura Toyoho, Nakamura Takashi, Inoue Mayuri, Yamamoto Yuzo, Watanabe Yusuke, Nagao Masayuki 

Direct: 11,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 14,820,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,420,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Global warming causes serious harm to the Earth's environment. A more sophisticated and accurate climate model can be developed by reconstructing climatic change since the Industrial Revolution. Coral skeletons are an important archive of past climate changes, and advances in the ability to read sea surface temperature and salinity in the coral record have been made by applying state-of-the-art technology. Coral skeletal climatology has been successfully applied to characterize both the recent global warming trend in the western Pacific, and it has also been used to investigate biological and environmental issues such as ocean acidification (Kubota et al., 2017). Nevertheless, aspects of coral skeletal climatology still need clarification, including the basic mechanism by which seawater temperature is recorded in coral skeletons, and further research on biomineralization will improve predictions of the future responses of marine calcifying organisms to ocean acidification.

Global environmental change reconstruction based on coral skeletal records around Japanese Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2015.04  -  2019.03 

Investigator(s): Suzuki Atsushi, Okai Takashi, Ishimura Toyoho, Nakamura Takashi, Inoue Mayuri, Yamamoto Yuzo, Watanabe Yusuke, Nagao Masayuki 

Direct: 11,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 14,820,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,420,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Global warming causes serious harm to the Earth's environment. A more sophisticated and accurate climate model can be developed by reconstructing climatic change since the Industrial Revolution. Coral skeletons are an important archive of past climate changes, and advances in the ability to read sea surface temperature and salinity in the coral record have been made by applying state-of-the-art technology. Coral skeletal climatology has been successfully applied to characterize both the recent global warming trend in the western Pacific, and it has also been used to investigate biological and environmental issues such as ocean acidification (Kubota et al., 2017). Nevertheless, aspects of coral skeletal climatology still need clarification, including the basic mechanism by which seawater temperature is recorded in coral skeletons, and further research on biomineralization will improve predictions of the future responses of marine calcifying organisms to ocean acidification.

Global environmental change reconstruction based on coral skeletal records around Japanese Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2015.04  -  2019.03 

Investigator(s): Suzuki Atsushi, Okai Takashi, Ishimura Toyoho, Nakamura Takashi, Inoue Mayuri, Yamamoto Yuzo, Watanabe Yusuke, Nagao Masayuki 

Direct: 11,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 14,820,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,420,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Global warming causes serious harm to the Earth's environment. A more sophisticated and accurate climate model can be developed by reconstructing climatic change since the Industrial Revolution. Coral skeletons are an important archive of past climate changes, and advances in the ability to read sea surface temperature and salinity in the coral record have been made by applying state-of-the-art technology. Coral skeletal climatology has been successfully applied to characterize both the recent global warming trend in the western Pacific, and it has also been used to investigate biological and environmental issues such as ocean acidification (Kubota et al., 2017). Nevertheless, aspects of coral skeletal climatology still need clarification, including the basic mechanism by which seawater temperature is recorded in coral skeletons, and further research on biomineralization will improve predictions of the future responses of marine calcifying organisms to ocean acidification.

Global environmental change reconstruction based on coral skeletal records around Japanese Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2015.04  -  2019.03 

Investigator(s): Suzuki Atsushi, Okai Takashi, Ishimura Toyoho, Nakamura Takashi, Inoue Mayuri, Yamamoto Yuzo, Watanabe Yusuke, Nagao Masayuki 

Direct: 11,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 14,820,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,420,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Global warming causes serious harm to the Earth's environment. A more sophisticated and accurate climate model can be developed by reconstructing climatic change since the Industrial Revolution. Coral skeletons are an important archive of past climate changes, and advances in the ability to read sea surface temperature and salinity in the coral record have been made by applying state-of-the-art technology. Coral skeletal climatology has been successfully applied to characterize both the recent global warming trend in the western Pacific, and it has also been used to investigate biological and environmental issues such as ocean acidification (Kubota et al., 2017). Nevertheless, aspects of coral skeletal climatology still need clarification, including the basic mechanism by which seawater temperature is recorded in coral skeletons, and further research on biomineralization will improve predictions of the future responses of marine calcifying organisms to ocean acidification.

Global environmental change reconstruction based on coral skeletal records around Japanese Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2015.04  -  2019.03 

Investigator(s): Suzuki Atsushi, Okai Takashi, Ishimura Toyoho, Nakamura Takashi, Inoue Mayuri, Yamamoto Yuzo, Watanabe Yusuke, Nagao Masayuki 

Direct: 11,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 14,820,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,420,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Global warming causes serious harm to the Earth's environment. A more sophisticated and accurate climate model can be developed by reconstructing climatic change since the Industrial Revolution. Coral skeletons are an important archive of past climate changes, and advances in the ability to read sea surface temperature and salinity in the coral record have been made by applying state-of-the-art technology. Coral skeletal climatology has been successfully applied to characterize both the recent global warming trend in the western Pacific, and it has also been used to investigate biological and environmental issues such as ocean acidification (Kubota et al., 2017). Nevertheless, aspects of coral skeletal climatology still need clarification, including the basic mechanism by which seawater temperature is recorded in coral skeletons, and further research on biomineralization will improve predictions of the future responses of marine calcifying organisms to ocean acidification.

Global environmental change reconstruction based on coral skeletal records around Japanese Islands

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2015.04  -  2019.03 

Investigator(s): Suzuki Atsushi, Okai Takashi, Ishimura Toyoho, Nakamura Takashi, Inoue Mayuri, Yamamoto Yuzo, Watanabe Yusuke, Nagao Masayuki 

Direct: 11,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 14,820,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,420,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Global warming causes serious harm to the Earth's environment. A more sophisticated and accurate climate model can be developed by reconstructing climatic change since the Industrial Revolution. Coral skeletons are an important archive of past climate changes, and advances in the ability to read sea surface temperature and salinity in the coral record have been made by applying state-of-the-art technology. Coral skeletal climatology has been successfully applied to characterize both the recent global warming trend in the western Pacific, and it has also been used to investigate biological and environmental issues such as ocean acidification (Kubota et al., 2017). Nevertheless, aspects of coral skeletal climatology still need clarification, including the basic mechanism by which seawater temperature is recorded in coral skeletons, and further research on biomineralization will improve predictions of the future responses of marine calcifying organisms to ocean acidification.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2014.04  -  2017.03 

The Design of Marine Protected Areas for Conserving Coral Reef: Co-management by Local Resident and the Role of Public Sector

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2014.04  -  2017.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki, MOROOKA Yoshinori, BALLAD Emma, BRADECINA Raul, NIEVES Plutomeo 

Direct: 12,900,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 16,770,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,870,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Degradation problem of coral reef in Yoron Is.: We found inside reef coral cover is very poor but outside higher. It suggest nutrient from land affect coral community. We found high density nutrient in sump water adsorbed phosphate in sand at sea bottom. We established numerical simulation system of material circulation in the island including coastal water body make it possible to assess the influence of countermeasure in land to sea. Diffusion activities of efficient fertilization method for sugar cane farming to cut down outflow of chemical fertilizer to environment. Philippines: We conducted the case study of 4MPA in Cagayan and clarified current status of MPA management and participation of community residents and evaluate the economic value of MPA management by community by CVM, TCAM and CB. Japan: We analyzed policy instruments to conserve coral and necessary regulations against each deterioration factors, especially overuse, and point necessity of integrated coastal management.

The Design of Marine Protected Areas for Conserving Coral Reef: Co-management by Local Resident and the Role of Public Sector

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2014.04  -  2017.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki, MOROOKA Yoshinori, BALLAD Emma, BRADECINA Raul, NIEVES Plutomeo 

Direct: 12,900,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 16,770,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,870,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Degradation problem of coral reef in Yoron Is.: We found inside reef coral cover is very poor but outside higher. It suggest nutrient from land affect coral community. We found high density nutrient in sump water adsorbed phosphate in sand at sea bottom. We established numerical simulation system of material circulation in the island including coastal water body make it possible to assess the influence of countermeasure in land to sea. Diffusion activities of efficient fertilization method for sugar cane farming to cut down outflow of chemical fertilizer to environment. Philippines: We conducted the case study of 4MPA in Cagayan and clarified current status of MPA management and participation of community residents and evaluate the economic value of MPA management by community by CVM, TCAM and CB. Japan: We analyzed policy instruments to conserve coral and necessary regulations against each deterioration factors, especially overuse, and point necessity of integrated coastal management.

The Design of Marine Protected Areas for Conserving Coral Reef: Co-management by Local Resident and the Role of Public Sector

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2014.04  -  2017.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki, MOROOKA Yoshinori, BALLAD Emma, BRADECINA Raul, NIEVES Plutomeo 

Direct: 12,900,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 16,770,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,870,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Degradation problem of coral reef in Yoron Is.: We found inside reef coral cover is very poor but outside higher. It suggest nutrient from land affect coral community. We found high density nutrient in sump water adsorbed phosphate in sand at sea bottom. We established numerical simulation system of material circulation in the island including coastal water body make it possible to assess the influence of countermeasure in land to sea. Diffusion activities of efficient fertilization method for sugar cane farming to cut down outflow of chemical fertilizer to environment. Philippines: We conducted the case study of 4MPA in Cagayan and clarified current status of MPA management and participation of community residents and evaluate the economic value of MPA management by community by CVM, TCAM and CB. Japan: We analyzed policy instruments to conserve coral and necessary regulations against each deterioration factors, especially overuse, and point necessity of integrated coastal management.

The Design of Marine Protected Areas for Conserving Coral Reef: Co-management by Local Resident and the Role of Public Sector

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2014.04  -  2017.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki, MOROOKA Yoshinori, BALLAD Emma, BRADECINA Raul, NIEVES Plutomeo 

Direct: 12,900,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 16,770,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,870,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Degradation problem of coral reef in Yoron Is.: We found inside reef coral cover is very poor but outside higher. It suggest nutrient from land affect coral community. We found high density nutrient in sump water adsorbed phosphate in sand at sea bottom. We established numerical simulation system of material circulation in the island including coastal water body make it possible to assess the influence of countermeasure in land to sea. Diffusion activities of efficient fertilization method for sugar cane farming to cut down outflow of chemical fertilizer to environment. Philippines: We conducted the case study of 4MPA in Cagayan and clarified current status of MPA management and participation of community residents and evaluate the economic value of MPA management by community by CVM, TCAM and CB. Japan: We analyzed policy instruments to conserve coral and necessary regulations against each deterioration factors, especially overuse, and point necessity of integrated coastal management.

The Design of Marine Protected Areas for Conserving Coral Reef: Co-management by Local Resident and the Role of Public Sector

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B)

Project Year: 2014.04  -  2017.03 

Investigator(s): Shinbo Teruyuki, MOROOKA Yoshinori, BALLAD Emma, BRADECINA Raul, NIEVES Plutomeo 

Direct: 12,900,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 16,770,000 (YEN)  Total: 3,870,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Degradation problem of coral reef in Yoron Is.: We found inside reef coral cover is very poor but outside higher. It suggest nutrient from land affect coral community. We found high density nutrient in sump water adsorbed phosphate in sand at sea bottom. We established numerical simulation system of material circulation in the island including coastal water body make it possible to assess the influence of countermeasure in land to sea. Diffusion activities of efficient fertilization method for sugar cane farming to cut down outflow of chemical fertilizer to environment. Philippines: We conducted the case study of 4MPA in Cagayan and clarified current status of MPA management and participation of community residents and evaluate the economic value of MPA management by community by CVM, TCAM and CB. Japan: We analyzed policy instruments to conserve coral and necessary regulations against each deterioration factors, especially overuse, and point necessity of integrated coastal management.

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 1,110,000 (YEN)  Total: 4,810,000 (YEN)

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Inter- and intracolony variability of coral climate proxies and implication for coral climatology

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): SUZUKI Atsushi, SAKAI Kazuhiko, NAKAMURA Takashi, OKAI Takashi, KATO Aki, ZHANG Jing, NAKASHIMA Rei, ISONO Ryosuke, KIKKAWA Takashi, IGUCHI Akira, INOUE Mayuri, MURAYAMA Shohei, HAYASHI Masahiro 

Direct: 37,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 48,620,000 (YEN)  Total: 11,220,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

As application of coral-based climate reconstruction has become more frequent at tropical sites, increased attention is being paid to the potential ambiguities of coral thermometers that are intrinsic to the biomineralisation process. Here we studied how the growth rate influenced the skeletal oxygen and carbon isotope ratios and the Sr/Ca ratio in a common-garden experiment involving the long-term culture of Porites australiensis clone colonies. The Sr/Ca ratio was robust against both inter- and intracolony growth-rate variation. The seasonal fluctuation in carbon isotope ratios corresponded to photosynthetic efficiency as measured by pulse-amplitude photometry. These findings support the inference that coral skeletal Sr/Ca and oxygen isotope ratios in a long-lived colony can function as a palaeoclimate archive by recording signals of clonal growth. We also propose practical guidelines for the proper interpretation of coral records.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Inter- and intracolony variability of coral climate proxies and implication for coral climatology

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): SUZUKI Atsushi, SAKAI Kazuhiko, NAKAMURA Takashi, OKAI Takashi, KATO Aki, ZHANG Jing, NAKASHIMA Rei, ISONO Ryosuke, KIKKAWA Takashi, IGUCHI Akira, INOUE Mayuri, MURAYAMA Shohei, HAYASHI Masahiro 

Direct: 37,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 48,620,000 (YEN)  Total: 11,220,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

As application of coral-based climate reconstruction has become more frequent at tropical sites, increased attention is being paid to the potential ambiguities of coral thermometers that are intrinsic to the biomineralisation process. Here we studied how the growth rate influenced the skeletal oxygen and carbon isotope ratios and the Sr/Ca ratio in a common-garden experiment involving the long-term culture of Porites australiensis clone colonies. The Sr/Ca ratio was robust against both inter- and intracolony growth-rate variation. The seasonal fluctuation in carbon isotope ratios corresponded to photosynthetic efficiency as measured by pulse-amplitude photometry. These findings support the inference that coral skeletal Sr/Ca and oxygen isotope ratios in a long-lived colony can function as a palaeoclimate archive by recording signals of clonal growth. We also propose practical guidelines for the proper interpretation of coral records.

Inter- and intracolony variability of coral climate proxies and implication for coral climatology

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): SUZUKI Atsushi, SAKAI Kazuhiko, NAKAMURA Takashi, OKAI Takashi, KATO Aki, ZHANG Jing, NAKASHIMA Rei, ISONO Ryosuke, KIKKAWA Takashi, IGUCHI Akira, INOUE Mayuri, MURAYAMA Shohei, HAYASHI Masahiro 

Direct: 37,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 48,620,000 (YEN)  Total: 11,220,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

As application of coral-based climate reconstruction has become more frequent at tropical sites, increased attention is being paid to the potential ambiguities of coral thermometers that are intrinsic to the biomineralisation process. Here we studied how the growth rate influenced the skeletal oxygen and carbon isotope ratios and the Sr/Ca ratio in a common-garden experiment involving the long-term culture of Porites australiensis clone colonies. The Sr/Ca ratio was robust against both inter- and intracolony growth-rate variation. The seasonal fluctuation in carbon isotope ratios corresponded to photosynthetic efficiency as measured by pulse-amplitude photometry. These findings support the inference that coral skeletal Sr/Ca and oxygen isotope ratios in a long-lived colony can function as a palaeoclimate archive by recording signals of clonal growth. We also propose practical guidelines for the proper interpretation of coral records.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Inter- and intracolony variability of coral climate proxies and implication for coral climatology

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): SUZUKI Atsushi, SAKAI Kazuhiko, NAKAMURA Takashi, OKAI Takashi, KATO Aki, ZHANG Jing, NAKASHIMA Rei, ISONO Ryosuke, KIKKAWA Takashi, IGUCHI Akira, INOUE Mayuri, MURAYAMA Shohei, HAYASHI Masahiro 

Direct: 37,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 48,620,000 (YEN)  Total: 11,220,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

As application of coral-based climate reconstruction has become more frequent at tropical sites, increased attention is being paid to the potential ambiguities of coral thermometers that are intrinsic to the biomineralisation process. Here we studied how the growth rate influenced the skeletal oxygen and carbon isotope ratios and the Sr/Ca ratio in a common-garden experiment involving the long-term culture of Porites australiensis clone colonies. The Sr/Ca ratio was robust against both inter- and intracolony growth-rate variation. The seasonal fluctuation in carbon isotope ratios corresponded to photosynthetic efficiency as measured by pulse-amplitude photometry. These findings support the inference that coral skeletal Sr/Ca and oxygen isotope ratios in a long-lived colony can function as a palaeoclimate archive by recording signals of clonal growth. We also propose practical guidelines for the proper interpretation of coral records.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Physio-Ecological study on Scleractinian corals' metabolic adjustability to dynamic environmental changes

Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists(B)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): NAKAMURA Takashi 

Direct: 3,700,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 4,810,000 (YEN)  Total: 1,110,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

Ctenactis echinata, as the rare case of "individual" scleractinian coral species, has been selected to explore the potential margin among thermal-stress responses within a population. The greater thermal sensitivities among sexually maturating individuals suggested the trade-off between maintainance and sexual reproduction in this species while stable tolerance were found among larger (older) individuals. In addition, expreiments focused on various life stages of Acropora digitifera such as; planktonic larvae, primarly polyps and mature colonies by cold-water stresses had been conducted. According to the results, niether planktonic larvae and mature colonies were not critically affected by cold stress however, primary polyps' calcification as well as budding rates were significantly suppressed. These results strongly suggest this species ability to survive under marginal region (temperate watar)envrionments is limited by the initial growth suppression.

Inter- and intracolony variability of coral climate proxies and implication for coral climatology

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): SUZUKI Atsushi, SAKAI Kazuhiko, NAKAMURA Takashi, OKAI Takashi, KATO Aki, ZHANG Jing, NAKASHIMA Rei, ISONO Ryosuke, KIKKAWA Takashi, IGUCHI Akira, INOUE Mayuri, MURAYAMA Shohei, HAYASHI Masahiro 

Direct: 37,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 48,620,000 (YEN)  Total: 11,220,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

As application of coral-based climate reconstruction has become more frequent at tropical sites, increased attention is being paid to the potential ambiguities of coral thermometers that are intrinsic to the biomineralisation process. Here we studied how the growth rate influenced the skeletal oxygen and carbon isotope ratios and the Sr/Ca ratio in a common-garden experiment involving the long-term culture of Porites australiensis clone colonies. The Sr/Ca ratio was robust against both inter- and intracolony growth-rate variation. The seasonal fluctuation in carbon isotope ratios corresponded to photosynthetic efficiency as measured by pulse-amplitude photometry. These findings support the inference that coral skeletal Sr/Ca and oxygen isotope ratios in a long-lived colony can function as a palaeoclimate archive by recording signals of clonal growth. We also propose practical guidelines for the proper interpretation of coral records.

Inter- and intracolony variability of coral climate proxies and implication for coral climatology

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(A)

Project Year: 2012.04  -  2015.03 

Investigator(s): SUZUKI Atsushi, SAKAI Kazuhiko, NAKAMURA Takashi, OKAI Takashi, KATO Aki, ZHANG Jing, NAKASHIMA Rei, ISONO Ryosuke, KIKKAWA Takashi, IGUCHI Akira, INOUE Mayuri, MURAYAMA Shohei, HAYASHI Masahiro 

Direct: 37,400,000 (YEN)  Overheads: 48,620,000 (YEN)  Total: 11,220,000 (YEN)

　View Summary

As application of coral-based climate reconstruction has become more frequent at tropical sites, increased attention is being paid to the potential ambiguities of coral thermometers that are intrinsic to the biomineralisation process. Here we studied how the growth rate influenced the skeletal oxygen and carbon isotope ratios and the Sr/Ca ratio in a common-garden experiment involving the long-term culture of Porites australiensis clone colonies. The Sr/Ca ratio was robust against both inter- and intracolony growth-rate variation. The seasonal fluctuation in carbon isotope ratios corresponded to photosynthetic efficiency as measured by pulse-amplitude photometry. These findings support the inference that coral skeletal Sr/Ca and oxygen isotope ratios in a long-lived colony can function as a palaeoclimate archive by recording signals of clonal growth. We also propose practical guidelines for the proper interpretation of coral records.

Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas

Project Year: 2010.04  -   

Direct: 800 (YEN)  Overheads: 0 (YEN)  Total: 800 (YEN)

Grant-in-Aid for JSPS Fellows

Project Year: 2007.04  -  2009.12 

Direct: 2,200 (YEN)  Overheads: 0 (YEN)  Total: 2,200 (YEN)

Grant-in-Aid for JSPS Fellows

Project Year: 2003.04  -  2004.03 

Direct: 1,800 (YEN)  Overheads: 0 (YEN)  Total: 1,800 (YEN)