Research and Development Initiatives-7

Task７

Quantification of Biological Resources and Knowledge Development for Their Sustainable Utilization

Japan, surrounded by bountiful seas, has long utilized marine resources and enjoyed their benefits. However, in recent years, significant rises in sea temperatures and other environmental changes have led to declines in fishery resource volumes and shifts in species composition of catches. To address these problems, it is essential to assess and monitor biological resource stocks and biodiversity. In this task, we evaluate the life history traits and resource abundance of fishery resources – mainly fish etc. – using environmental DNA techniques, otolith analysis, stable isotope analysis, and other methods. In addition, by working closely with local people in the fishing and processing industries in our research, we aim to realize sustainable fisheries and effectively utilize untapped resources within the community.

Research Task Leader

Hiroaki MURAKAMI

Research Task Leader

Assistant Professor, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University

Hiroaki Murakami received his Ph.D. in Agriculture from the Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, in 2019. In the same year, he joined the Maizuru Fisheries Research Station, Field Science Education and Research Center, Kyoto University, as a Postdoctoral fellow. In 2020, he became a Program-Specific Researcher at the RE: CONNECT Center for the Promotion of Interdisciplinary Education and Research at Kyoto University. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Graduate School of Agricultural Science at Tohoku University.
His research focuses on the use of environmental DNA (eDNA)—genetic material released from organisms into the environment—to investigate the ecology, distribution, and population dynamics of fish in riverine and coastal ecosystems. By detecting eDNA in environmental samples, his work aims to provide efficient, non-invasive tools for monitoring aquatic biodiversity.
In this project, Miyagi and Mie Prefectures serve as the main study areas. By applying eDNA-based approaches to assess fish biodiversity and estimate fishery resources, the project seeks to contribute to ecosystem conservation and the realization of sustainable fisheries in these coastal areas.