#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo Wildlife #Biome App #Nature Diversity

Introduction to Tokyo's Wildlife Inventory

Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis, has taken a significant step towards promoting biodiversity by updating its digital wildlife inventory, the "Tokyo Ikimono Daicho". This initiative is a part of the city’s effort to realize a nature-positive environment and has been developed with active citizen participation. On the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity, the city has launched its second edition, which includes detailed catalogs of spider and cicada species found in the area.

New Catalogs Published

The newly released catalogs showcase an extensive range of spider and cicada species, drawing from a rich history of specimen records dating back 145 years, along with more recent data collected through citizen surveys using smartphones. The results are impressive: the database has documented 693 spider species and 17 cicada species in Tokyo, encompassing approximately 45,000 and 5,000 records, respectively. This collection of data reveals a comprehensive overview of the wildlife that inhabits the city’s diverse environments.

Notable Findings

With 693 spider species recorded, Tokyo holds the highest number among all Japanese prefectures, representing around 40% of the species documented nationwide. The presence of numerous spider species suggests a rich population of insects, indicating a healthy ecosystem. Despite its relatively small area, Tokyo boasts a variety of habitats including mountainous regions, rural landscapes, urban environments, and islands. This environmental diversity contributes significantly to the thriving spider diversity.

Additionally, among the cicada species, the non-native "Kumazemi," which is believed to have been introduced due to urban plantation, has been widely recorded, showcasing the impact of human activities on local biodiversity.


Photo credit: Hideo Kita

Launch of Citizen Science Events

To commemorate the update of the wildlife inventory, Tokyo has introduced a citizen science initiative utilizing the smartphone app "Biome." This app features a series of quests that encourage participants to search for the species listed in the inventory in their natural habitats. Participants can engage in this exciting endeavor by photographing and submitting their findings through the app, making biological research an enjoyable game.

Event Details

• - Investigation Period: From May 22, 2025, to July 9, 2025
• - Location: Throughout Tokyo
• - Participation: Submit findings via the "Biome" app

For more detailed instructions on how to participate in these quests, visit the official website: Tokyo Ikimono

The Tokyo Ikimono Investigation Group

The Tokyo Ikimono Investigation Group was established in 2023 as part of the digital wildlife cataloging project. This group consists of expert researchers conducting professional surveys, as well as citizen researchers utilizing the "Biome" app, enabling everyone to contribute to the exploration of Tokyo's wildlife.

About Biome Corporation

Located in Kyoto, the Biome Corporation focuses on developing and operating biological information applications. Founded in May 2017, it promotes initiatives such as the partnership with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to enhance public involvement in biodiversity efforts. Their agreement, signed in July 2023, aims to create an information collection system driven by citizen engagement.

For more about Biome Corporation, visit: Biome Official

Conclusion

Tokyo's ongoing commitment to biodiversity is commendable, and with the latest updates to the wildlife inventory, the city is not only preserving its rich natural heritage but also actively engaging citizens in the thrill of exploring and understanding their environment. As the city continues to evolve, these catalogs serve as vital tools for fostering a deeper connection between its residents and the diverse wildlife that shares their habitat.