Japanese

INTRODUCTION TO OUR LAB

diversity

 Our lab is located in the building of Genome Dynamics Research Center. Our staff members belong to Faculty of Science; the graduate students of our lab study in the Department of Natural History Sciences, Graduate School of Science; and the undergraduate students study in the Department of Biology, School of Science.
 The research object of our lab is to analyze molecular phylogeny and population genetics of mammals and birds and to elucidate the mechanisms in establishment of the endemic fauna and zoogeographical history on the Japanese islands. It is also important to investigate the zoogeographical meanings of demarcations around Japan, such as the Tsugaru strait (Blakiston’s line). For these researches, we analyze nucleotide sequences in the genes and genotypes of gene loci and examine the molecular phylogenetics and population genetics on species and populations. In addition to the modern DNA analysis, we develop ancient DNA analysis of distinct animals and archaeological specimens and clarify the temporal and special changes of biodiversity. The results can be biological data for evaluation of the perspective of biodiversity status, and then contribute to conservation of endangered species.
 In addition, we develop the methodology of genetic analysis on non-invasive samples such as feces from field. We think that on-going studies in our lab to clarify distribution and behavioral patterns of species and individuals using the non-invasive techniques are included in zoogeographical research. Our zoogeographical study should also contribute to resolution of problems currently produced by invasive species.

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MAIN ACADEMIC FIELDS

  • Molecular phylogeny and evolutionary origins of the leopard cats on Iriomote and Tsushima Islands
  • Migration history on the Hokkaido population of the brown bears
  • Intercultural communication during the Okhotsk period using cub bears on Hokkaido
  • Population genetics on the Hokkaido population of the red fox and morphological variations of the Japanese red foxes
  • Temporal and spatial changes of genetic variations in the Blakiston’s fish owl and the Japanese crane on Hokkaido
  • Molecular phylogeography on Japan-endemic species in Mustelidae
  • Origins and genetic variations of the masked palm civet in Japan
  • Development of genetic analytical techniques for non-invasive samples and the application to molecular ecology

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KEYWORDS

Genetic diversity, Population genetics, Molecular phylogenetics, Ancient DNA, Biogeography, Conservation biology

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