We work to conserve and restore the aquatic environment. We strive to maintain the biodiversity therein, especially with the aim of protecting, conserving and restoring threatened species.
     Japan has a complex landscape, and a rich and diverse wetland environments. Freshwater fishes inhabit a variety of water bodies, such as running waters from mountain streams to estuaries, stagnant waters in lakes and marshes, and irrigation creeks connecting them. However, the current state of freshwater fish habitats is plagued by various issues such as engineering works, deterioration of water quality, interruption of stream continuity, predation and hybridization by alien species, and illegal harvesting. According to the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment, among about 400 species of fresh and brackish water fishes, 123 species (about 30%) are threatened with extinction. This is the highest proportion among others.
     We contribute to the community by actively promoting basic scientific research and provision of technology for environmental conservation, and by providing education and consulting services related to living organisms and the environment.