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Let's observe living things in Iriomote Island, a treasure house of diversity!
Hello everyone!
One of the largest activity stores in Iriomote Island
Iriomotejima ADVENTURE PiPi!
On Iriomote Island, there are many creatures that are not usually seen.
So, in Iriomote Islandrare speciesThe local resident staff will provide a thorough explanation of the following!
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Observation of various organisms in Iriomote Island!
Many people who do not know much about Iriomote Island may know Iriomote wildcat.
Iriomote wildcat, a special natural treasure, inhabits the area.In the same way, Iriomote Island has its own ecosystem with various creatures that can only be seen here.
Iriomote Island's great nature is a registered World Heritage site.
The environment of Iriomote Island is a rare wilderness in the world, and this has been recognized by UNESCORegistered as a World Natural Heritage Site as of 2021The first time the company was founded, it was in the process of being reorganized into a new company.
Surrounded by sea, 90% of the island is forested
The reason why Iriomote Island was able to establish the environment it has today is largely due to the fact that it is an isolated island surrounded by the sea.
Because of its closed environment, the ecosystem is complete only on the island,No invasive species are introduced from outside.
And of the island's area, a whoppingMore than 90% of the virgin forests remain untouched by human developmentThe first two are the following.
Such a richNatural environment is an external factorThe fact that the years have passed without being thrown out of balance by the "Mere Old Man" has been a success, and has led to the creation of the miraculous environment that we see today.
A veritable treasure trove of creatures
In praise of Iriomote Island, the word "Galapagos" is used as an analogy for the Galapagos Islands.Galapagos of the OrientSometimes referred to as "the
The environment of Iriomote Island is truly a biological paradise.
It is a popular tourist destination for us to see beautiful nature, but it is onlyThe main actors on this island are not humans, but animals and plants.
Land creatures found on Iriomote Island
Iriomote Island is home to many unusual land creatures that cannot be seen in Honshu.
Here,Typical land creatures of Iriomote Islandto the following.
Iriomote wildcat (Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis)
The Iriomote wildcat inhabits only Iriomote Island,Lives in lowlands from the foothills of the mountains to the coastThe company is committed to
Normal bobcats feed only on small mammals such as mice and rabbits.
However, the Iriomote wildcat isFrogs and lizards, insects and batsIt is an ecology that eats without preference, thanks to the abundance of organisms such asEvolution without extinctionThe first is that the company has been able to achieve a
It is a rare example in the world that a carnivorous animal like the bobcat can live on a small island, and we invite you to see how they have evolved to be not only cute but also evolved.
coconut crab (Birgus latro)
Have you ever heard of coconut crabs?
Reaching more than 40 cm in length, the coconut crab boasts a very large body for a crustacean,Encounter in mangrove forests, etc.The following is an example of a product that can be used in this way.
The hermit crab is a member of the hermit crab family, but it is an ecology that cannot live in water,They basically live on land.I am sure you will.
somewhat humorous appearance.Coconut crabs are edibleThey are also known as "Okinawa's native animals," and are a must-see when learning about the local climate.
sacred lionfish (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
You can also encounter precious hermit crabs in Iriomote Island.
There are several species of hermit crabs on the island, among which the hermit crab called the Onaaki hermit crab was selected by the Ministry of the Environment as one of theDesignated as semi-endangeredThe creature is a rare and highly valued species.
Walking hard along the riverbanks and beaches with a big shell on your back.The sight of them will surely soothe your soul.
Yaeyama flying fox (Pteropus volitans)
The Yaeyama flying fox, named after the Yaeyama Islands to which Iriomote Island belongs, looks like a bat around its neck.White ring pattern as if wearing a collarIt is considered to be characterized by the presence of
I spread my wings.1 meter in lengthThe weight is much greater than the400gThe large body reaches up to 1.5 meters in length.
Although their size tends to surprise people, they are not harmful to humans and are somewhat endearing creatures.
Since they are not afraid of people, they are not afraid of sightseeing on the island.We see them flying around in human living areas.There will be opportunities to
white-bellied crucian carp
The White-bellied Lapwing is a crane-like bird that can be seen only in the vicinity of the Yaeyama Islands.
Not often seen in other lands.rare birdIn Iriomote Island, however, this bird can be seen on roadsides and all over the place.
If you are not aware of it, you may overlook it as a type of wild bird, but beforehandPrecious BirdsIf you know that it is, you will be deeply moved when you see it.
Ryukyu tree lizard (Japalura polygonata)
In Iriomote Island, even lizards are too precious to be missed.
endangered speciesThe tree lizard, which is considered to be the most common type of lizard in the world, has the characteristic of climbing trees well, as its name suggests,Clinging to trees and other objects near private homes.In many cases.
In the big one.Body length 30 cmThe size of the fish is as large as a small dog, so if you are aware of the size of the fish and look for it, you will have a rather high probability of encountering it.
crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela)
The crested serpent eagle is a bird distributed in areas from Southeast Asia to Okinawa Prefecture, and its heroic appearance can be seen here and there on Iriomote Island.
Sometimes they can be seen perched on top of telephone poles,Designated as a natural monumentreceived.
This crested serpent eagle on the road.Roadkill, being hit by a car.If you see a crested serpent eagle on the road, you should take your car toDecelerate and cautionLet's do it.
Central Asian box turtle (Chelonia mydas agassizii)
The turtle called Semaru Hakogame is also one of the natural treasures living on Iriomote Island.
When attacked by an enemy, it curls up its abdominal shell,Shell sealed like a boxIt has the interesting characteristic of doing so.
land development and overhunting for breeding purposes.Tortoises in decreasing numbers worldwide.and it is precious to see them living peacefully on Iriomote Island.
Ryukyu red snapper (Lutjanus ryukyuensis)
If you hear a "kyororororo" in the forests of Okinawa during the summer, it is probably a Ryukyu red kingfisher fighting for territory.
Ryukyu red kingfisher (Megaceryle lugubris)Red beak and reddish brown bodyThe coloring of the bird, which is not easily seen in the mainland, will leave a page in your memory of your trip to Iriomote Island.
long-eared owl (Asio otus)
In Iriomote Islandowl (esp. the Ural owl, Strix uralensis)You can also meet with
Lidth's hawk owl (Ninox scutulata)Approximately 20 cm in lengthThe owl is a small owl of the family Scapanidae, and its main habitat seems to be tree cavities.
In the night forest of Iriomote IslandCoho, coho cryIf you have heard of a "I'm not sure," then a Ryukyu sparrowhawk may be nearby.
If you want to observe land creatures!
Starry sky & jungle night tour
Wild animals are more active at night.
If you want to see the animals of Iriomote IslandJungle Night TourIt is recommended that you participate in the
Also,If the weather is good, you may be able to see a star-filled sky!
This tour kills two birds with one stone, as you can also enjoy the starry sky of Iriomote Island, which is said to be the best in Japan.
Marine life found on Iriomote Island
The blue sea that surrounds Iriomote Island is a place where, if you were on the mainland, you wouldCan only be seen at the aquarium.You can see creatures swimming about in a leisurely manner.
We hope it will be helpful to you when you visit Iriomote Island in the future,Creatures you may encounter in the island's watersHere are just a few examples.
sea turtle
Sea turtles are often seen in fairy tales and animated movies,Currently listed as endangeredThe rare creatures that have been
It is not easy to meet with the real thing outside of the aquarium, but in Iriomote Island, there are three kinds of sea turtles with loggerheads, green turtles, and hawksbill turtles.A high probability of meeting.
During the months of May through September, when sea turtles swim close to shore to lay their eggs, you may be lucky enough to see them while snorkeling.
manta ray
Mantas are members of the ray family and are impressive creatures that skillfully use their large, flat bodies (2 to 5 meters long) to swim as if flapping their wings.
As evidenced by the name's resemblance to a cloak.Swimming is very gracefuland is a highly popular creature to encounter while snorkeling.
This manta ray is also a rare creature certified as an endangered species, but in the waters around Iriomote IslandTwo species of manta rays, the southern manta ray and the black manta rayIt is possible to meet with
clownfish (Balistoides conspicillum)
The clownfish, a tropical fish that became famous as the star of the Finding Nemo movie, can also be seen in the waters of Iriomote Island.
Timid fishSo, if you approach them carelessly and scare them, they will soon become symbiotic.It hides in the shadow of the sea anemone.
When you meet them, don't scare them away.Gently approach and observeMake sure to do so.
hammerhead shark
Hammerhead sharks, as their name suggests, are very unique sharks with a head shaped like a hammer.
You may be apprehensive when you hear the word shark, but hammerhead sharks areBasically, they do not attack people.
If you are lucky, you may even encounter a school of them while snorkeling,The sight of silver sharks swimming powerfully is impressive.It is sure to give you the best of both worlds.
coral
The ocean of Okinawa is a coral reef.
Of course, you can see colorful corals in the sea of Iriomote Island.
In recent years, due to environmental changes and other factors in Okinawa,Coral die offThe phenomenon of bleaching has become a problem.
However, the sea in the suburbs of Iriomote Island is relatively good environment, especially in some beaches located in the inner part of the island.Vibrant tintsIt is possible to appreciate the corals that keep the
sapphire devil (Chrysiptera cyanea, damselfish from the Indo-West Pacific)
Among the tropical fish that can be seen in the sea of Iriomote Island, the one that is highly popular because of its beauty is the "Kaiyodo" or "Kaiyodo" fish,bluish sheen bodyThis is a lurid damselfish with a
Body size 7 cmAlthough the fish is as small as a small gem, its lapis lazuli color, as its name suggests, is loved by many people as being as beautiful as a jewel.
You can find these fish even in shallow waters, so please look for them when you come to Iriomote Island.
If you want to observe marine life!
Snorkeling Tour
If you want to encounter sea creatures, it is best to take a snorkeling tour.
There are a variety of tours available,We hope you will find a plan that suits you.I recommend that you find out and participate.
Dangerous Creatures Encountered on Iriomote Island
The environment of Iriomote Island is untouched wilderness!
Naturally, it's the pretty or harmless ones that live there.It is not only organisms that are convenient to humans.
From here, you might encounter them in Iriomote Island sightseeing.dangerous organismI would like to make sure to introduce you to the following information.
northern sea nettle (Chrysaora melanaster)
It is causing a lot of damage to the oceans of Okinawa,poisonous jellyfishIt is a habu jellyfish that is
Its semi-transparent nature makes it difficult to see because it blends into the sea, and its long tentacles make it very easy to touch.
Its toxicity is very strong, and its sting causes severe pain,Worst-case scenario is life-threatening, so be careful.Please do so.
What to do if you are a victim
The remedy for a habu jellyfish sting is clear.
First, do not touch the stung area indiscreetly, and exterminate the habu jellyfish.Sprinkle a large amount of vinegar, which is effective.
Then, cool the affected area with ice, etc., as much as possible.Medical facilities in the vicinity at an early stageIt is important to see a
Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis)
Along with the habu jellyfish, it is considered a dangerous sea creature,Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis)It is also called a bonefish.
The sting causes severe pain, as if the victim had received an electric shock,Anaphylactic shock if stung twiceThey are dangerous organisms that can cause
Incidentally, this bonefish is called an electric jellyfish, but in reality it is not a jellyfish at all.A collection of insects called hydatid wormsThe first two are the following.
What to do if you are a victim
If you are stung, get ashore as quickly as possible, remove the tentacles from the affected area by any means other than bare hands, and wash the affected area with seawater.
One note of caution,Washing the affected area with fresh water is strictly prohibited.The first two are the following.
Due to osmotic pressure,The body absorbs poisons more easily.It is a
Then, hurry to see a medical professional and have him or her take appropriate action.
stonefish
The giant flying fox, which mimics reefs in the shallows of the ocean, is also named as a very dangerous creature.
quasi-The "M" is very hard to find because of its shape,If you accidentally step on it, it's on its back.A venomous spike gets stuck in your leg.It is a
What to do if you are a victim
Onioderma lucidum (species of goby)Poison is very powerfulTherefore, you should go ashore immediately to avoid drowning.
Wash the affected area with fresh water,If it can be heated to 45°C or higher, it breaks down the poison and alleviatesIt is said that it is possible to do so.
However, dealing with heat is only a first aid measure, so try as much as possible topromptly to a medical institutionLet's head to the
crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci)
The starfish is also a starfish, as well as a starfish,Poisonous spines all over the bodyIt is a creature that has
Hidden under corals and so on.Be careful not to carelessly insert your hand into places you cannot see.
What to do if you are a victim
The starfish is similar to the starfish, Oncorhynchus mykiss, in the nature of its venom.
Therefore, wash with fresh water in the same way,Heating above 45°C, medical attentionThis can be handled in the following manner.
blotched snakehead (species of fish, Channa maculata)
The slender, striped-patterned Madara sea snake is another type of poisonous creature that lives in the waters of Iriomote Island.
Bites are neurotoxicThe bite is basically not likely to occur unless we interfere with the animal.
When you see them, don't bother them,Try to keep your distance quietly.
What to do if you are a victim
If you have been bitten by a mud snakeextremely dangerousIt is.
From the bite site.Bound tightly to prevent blood from flowing to the heart and squeezing out the poison, the hospitalLet's head to the
It is a poison that has a time lag before symptoms appear, so it is important to treat it while you can move and as little as possible.Getting to the hospital quickly is the difference between life and death.It is.
Be sure to keep this in mind.
Saxima Hub
Venomous creatures live on land as well as in the sea, and a prime example is the Saxima habu, a species of habu that is famous as a venomous snake in Okinawa.
It is said to be not toxic enough to kill, but the bite still causes pain,Possible residual effectsThere are also
If you see them, do not provoke them and gently keep your distance.
What to do if you are a victim
If you are bitten, suck out the venom and bind the area near the heart from the affected area, but not too tightly.
Running and increasing your heart rate speeds up the poison cycle.Therefore, you should walk or have someone else drive you to the hospital for treatment.
Iriomote Island safely.
To make biological observations
As I have described in this series of articles on poisonous creatures, sightseeing in the wilderness involves a certain amount of danger.
Nevertheless, there is no need to be overly fearful if you have the proper mindset.
Points to keep in mindI would like to raise
Do not touch any living creature unnecessarily
First, as an ironclad rule,I don't touch creatures I don't know.Let's try to do that.
Most of us do not know what characteristics any creature has other than those described in this article.
To be risk-free,It is important to be cautiousIt is.
Participate in tours as much as possible
To avoid danger,Guided by someone familiar with the local areaIt is safest to receive a
With a guide, if you see a creature you do not know, you can ask if it is safe or not, as appropriate.
Not only for safety, but also for full enjoyment,It is recommended to take a tour and sightsee as much as possible.
Let's understand how to deal with it.
And the important thing is to have a plan of action in mind in advance in case of an emergency.
When you go to any sightseeing spots in Iriomote Island,Preliminary investigation of risk factors well in advanceBe sure to keep this in mind.
in the end
About the creatures of Iriomote IslandWe have told you about both the attractions and the dangers.
Iriomote Island is home to many fascinating creatures,There are also many dangerous organisms.
Please go to the island with an understanding of how to deal with the situation and enjoy the many creatures you will encounter.
This article was written by.
