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Exotic organisms of Yokohama
Last Updated March 20, 2019
Exotic organisms of Yokohama
"Exotic organisms (invasive species)" refers to organisms that have not been in the area but have come in from other areas due to human activities. In Yokohama, there are many creatures that originally inhabited and did not grow in Yokohama, such as those brought into wild as pets and those that were brought into wild and carried on ships. The figure below shows the number and percentage of alien species among the organisms (fish, benthic animals, and adhering algae) confirmed by the biota survey in rivers. Although the number of species in rivers is on the rise as a whole along with the improvement of the water environment, the proportion of alien species is gradually increasing, and the biodiversity unique to Yokohama is being lost.
Exotic organisms found in the city
In the city, countless exotic organisms inhabit and grow, some of them are introduced.
Kurihara squirrel (Taiwan)
It lives mainly in the southern part of the city and is expanding its distribution. There are damage such as peeling bark or biting telephone lines.
Haze
A family of starlings found mainly in the southern part of the city. In the Edo period, it was depicted in porcelain and barrier paintings, but originally did not inhabit Yokohama.
Red bean curd
Butterflies are artificially butterflies and are expanding their distribution. It can be seen throughout the city.
River worm
A goby family distributed in West Japan. Originally, it does not live in Yokohama and is a domestic alien species.
Some alien species are subject to control as they may or may cause damage to the ecosystem, human life and body, agriculture, forestry and fisheries, but once they have spread to the outdoors. It is difficult to eradicate alien species and requires a lot of effort.
In order to connect Yokohama's biodiversity to future generations, the main principle is to "do not enter", "don't throw away", and "do not spread" alien species.
For inquiries to this page
Environmental Conservation Department, Green Environment Bureau
Phone: 045-453-2550
Phone: 045-453-2550
Fax: 045-453-2560
Email address: mk-kanken@city.yokohama.lg.jp
Page ID: 554-603-684
