On June 29, 2023, sixth graders from Ishizaki Elementary School in Nanao City took part in an “Survey on Marine Life in Satoumi area.” This survey involved experts from the Noto GIAHS Biodiversity Working Group, including Sakai from Kanazawa University’s Institute of Natural and Environmental Technology, Arakawa from the Noto Marine Center, Kishioka from Kanazawa University’s Noto Campus, and Researcher Koyama from the UNU-IAS OUIK, who all provided support for the survey.
The survey took place around the Ishizaki Fishing Port in Nanao City. The students arrived on foot from Ishizaki Elementary School, accompanied by their teachers. The weather was pleasant, providing a nice breeze as they prepared to observe the various marine creatures.
The day began with Mr. Sawano from the Nanao City Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Department briefing the students on the schedule. Following this, Sakai provided explanations about the observation sites, collecting and observation methods, and important safety precautions.
The students were divided into four groups, where they used nets to collect marine organisms from the sea and searched along the sandy beaches and rocky areas for creatures, carefully catching them while wearing gloves. Each group not only focused on the organisms but also observed the environmental conditions of the area and the types of debris they found. Despite the initial appearance of a barren coastline, a thorough inspection revealed a diversity of marine life. The children expressed great curiosity, their faces lighting up with excitement as they came across crabs, shells, and other fascinating creatures right before their eyes.
※Photo on the right: The discovered sand crab
The instructors Sakai and Arakawa helped the students identify and explain the species of the collected organisms, and they patiently answered all the students’ questions. The children gained a deep understanding of the ecology and habitats of these creatures, as well as the importance of monitoring, protecting, and using the local sea environment and its inhabitants.
They got a special opportunity to see the sand crab, which they usually only observe through its burrow. This time, they managed to catch one, and as they looked at it for the first time, they exclaimed, “Its eyes are popping out!” They quickly noticed the difference compared to other crabs found on the rocks, showcasing their keen observational skills.
In the end, the students also had the chance to use an app called iNaturalist for identifying and documenting the creatures they encountered. Although taking pictures of the small shells was quite challenging and there were some misidentifications, it was clear that they enjoyed using the app and engaging with the nature around them.
※Researching organisms using an app
This exploration of the satoumi (coastal areas) ecosystem has likely provided the children with a valuable experience and a chance to learn. By directly interacting with the creatures of nature, they have probably deepened their interest in the environment and their understanding of biodiversity. OUIK hopes that initiatives like this will continue in local communities and schools, fostering a connection with nature and encouraging the monitoring, preservation, and sustainable use of our nearby coastal areas. We, too, would like to support educational and environmental activities in our region’s satoyama (village forests) and satoumi (coastal areas) to ensure that children have access to a variety of experiences and learning opportunities in the future.
