Animals and plants inhabiting the Ogasawara Islands have evolved independently in a state of separation from the continent or mainland for a long time, forming a unique ecosystem, the value of World Heritage. If alien species are introduced and settle in such places from the continent or mainland, there is a risk that they will prey on endemic species or take over habitats ruining the islands’ ecosystem.
From summer to autumn, insects, amphibians, and reptiles become active, and there is an increased possibility of them hiding in luggage and goods. In the past, the discovery of non-native species such as snakes, frogs, beetles, and cicadas from the mainland have been reported on the islands. Meanwhile, there are cases where terrestrial planarians and non-native land snails seem to have been introduced and settled without detection.
To protect the islands’ ecosystem from those new alien species, it is very important to find alien species before they settle. If you find species unfamiliar to the Ogasawara Islands, please contact the Ministry of the Environment.
Contacts
Chichijima Island: Ogasawara Ranger Office for Conservation +81-4998-2-7174
Hahajima Island: Hahajima Ranger Office for Conservation +81-4998-3-2577
Cases
A tree frog hiding in a lettuce bought from a store on the island
Discovery
The buyer captured it and informed the Ranger Office
Actions
Consultation with the Ranger Office, the buyer registered the frog as a pet
Beetles found in imported beans bought through the internet
Discovery
The buyer informed the Ranger Office
Actions
Properly disposed of after freezing to prevent spread of new alien species
A rat snake found in the rack stacked outside a building
Discovery
Tokyo Metropolitan Branch Office was informed and captured it, then the Ranger Office was informed
Actions
Dead a few days laterProperly disposed of after freezing
Beetles attached to firewood bought through internet
Discovery
The buyer informed related authorities
Actions
Properly disposed of to prevent the spread of new alien species
A land snail attached to mustard spinach bought from a store on the island
Discovery
The buyer informed related authorities
Actions
Properly disposed of after freezing to prevent the spread of new alien species
