Asst. Prof. Hamamoto, MECOHLab Students, and International Partners Conducted a Joint Marine Biodiversity Survey off Kochi Coast

From August 24 to 27, 2026, a group of researcher from University of Leeds visited Shikoku Region to conduct a tropicalization survey. Taking advantage of this opportunity, a joint survey was conducted by Ehime University, the University of Leeds, and the University of the Ryukyus. A total of 10 researchers and students had come together and conducted a marine survey off the coast of Kochi Prefecture, focusing on various marine organisms, including corals, brittle stars, and fishes.

We participated in boat diving at two locations, Kashiwajima and Okinoshima. We had originally planned to conduct shore diving in front of the Kuroshio Biological Research Institute, but due to the typhoon, EU team couldn’t join that site.
The main research objectives of the University of Leeds were:

1. To observe changes in the coral reef ecosystem over time by comparing the current conditions with the results of previous surveys.
2. To determine the abundance and identify the species of organisms, including fish, corals, echinoderms and other benthic organisms, within designated areas.

The members of the University of Leeds were assigned different roles and worked together to ensure that the survey proceeded smoothly.

Boat-diving survey at Kashiwajima and Okinoshima
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In addition, while traveling by boat between the survey sites, we not only discussed and confirmed the survey plans but also actively shared information about the organisms we had encountered underwater. This provided a valuable opportunity for researchers and students from the three universities to interact and deepen their connections beyond the boundaries of their respective institutions.

Daisuke, Kanei, and Ruki collected environmental DNA (eDNA) samples during the survey either from the shore or from a boat at survey sites. They also measured the temperature, pH, conductivity, and dissolved oxygen (DO) of the seawater collected at the same time. Researchers and students from other universities showed great interest in eDNA sampling and closely observed the process.
In addition to the research activities, there were also many opportunities for interaction and knowledge exchange among the members. At the end of the boat diving activities, we visited Ashizuri Aquarium SATOUMI. The aquarium is famous for sea slugs, and I had the opportunity to see a variety of rare species. In addition, there were many cute and unique marine animals, and we were able to see the fish being fed. It was also a good opportunity for the international students to learn more about Japanese culture, and we all had a great time.

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After another day of surveying, we had dinner together at an izakaya. We enjoyed fresh sashimi unique to Kochi, as well as some of our favorite dishes at the restaurant. During dinner, we talked about our research, mutual friends and teachers, interesting stories, and much more! Finally, we became closer not only through our research activities, but also through spending time together in our daily lives.
Lastly, we had a very enjoyable and meaningful time throughout these four days. Here, I would like to thank Maria sensei from the University of Leeds and the students from the University of Ryukyus for their cooperation and for making these four days so memorable.
Thank you for eveything!

Written and contributed by: Senoo Ruki