#Japan #Tokyo #Biome #Tokyo Biodiversity #Urban Flora

Tokyo Biodiversity Ledger

In a significant move towards achieving Nature Positive goals, Tokyo has announced the unveiling of its digital wildlife catalog, the "Tokyo Biodiversity Ledger." This initiative aims to provide a comprehensive view of urban wildlife information. Recently, they revealed a whopping 115,840 plant specimen records, taking a crucial first step towards understanding the city's diverse flora. The unveiling will serve as a foundation for ongoing collection and publication of information through specimens, literature, citizen science, and expert studies.

Understanding the Plant Specimens

The comprehensive specimen information reveals vital evidence regarding the distribution of various plant species—key to comprehending the natural environment of Tokyo. Currently, the catalog features records of 115,840 specimens from 4,179 species available up to December 2025. Among these, the oldest specimen was collected in 1873 in what is now Okutama Town, identified as "Shishi-udo."

A point of interest is the historical context provided by these specimens. Take Shibuya, now an urban hub bustling with youth culture and commercial establishments, which was once a serene countryside abounding with flora over a century ago. The "Tokyo Biodiversity Ledger" contains numerous specimens collected from Shibuya during that time. For instance, the perennial plant "Renrisou," thriving in sunny, moist grasslands, is one such species. As per Tokyo’s red list, "Renrisou" is now classified as extinct (EX) in the urban area; however, the historical records indicate that suitable natural habitats did exist back in the day.

New Survey Events with the Biome App

Along with the launch of the "Tokyo Biodiversity Ledger," a new citizen engagement initiative is set in motion. Using the smartphone app "Biome," residents can partake in exciting new fieldwork quests themed around "Tokyo’s Birds" and "Invasive Species." The event invites participants to explore the outdoors and engage with local wildlife this winter.

The quests allow participants to discover themed wildlife, record their findings, and share photos using the app.

• - Survey Period: December 16, 2025, to February 28, 2026
• - Location: Throughout Tokyo
• - Participation: Through the "Biome" app, with detailed instructions available on the official website here.

The "Tokyo Biodiversity Survey Group" was established in 2023 to bolster public participation in the creation of this digital wildlife catalog. It consists of expert research teams along with citizen scientists who can contribute to wildlife surveys anytime through the app.

Continuous Support for Plant Data Collection

Recognizing the continually evolving landscape of Tokyo's plant life, a dedicated section for the digital flora catalog is set to launch in cooperation with the Makino Herbarium at Tokyo Metropolitan University starting from April 2024. The plan includes thorough data collection not only through specimens and literature but also through citizen science initiatives and expert field surveys aimed at cataloging the area’s rich botanical makeup.

To keep everyone updated on the latest developments in the plant sector, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in collaboration with the herbarium also produces a newsletter titled "TOKYOENCE." For more information and to stay updated, check the newsletter here.

About Biome Inc.

Biome Inc., located at 134 Nakadouji Minamimachi in Kyoto, was established on May 31, 2017. The company specializes in developing and managing biological information apps and systems. In July 2023, Tokyo signed a fundamental agreement with Biome for community participation in wildlife data collection and accumulation using digital transformation technologies. For additional details, visit their website here.