A complete guide to plants and recommended observation points on Amami Oshima Island! Introducing the best time to see the plants by season!
Table of Contents
- 1 What is the attraction of plants on Amami Oshima Island?
- 2 Characteristics of plants on Amami Oshima Island
- 3 What kind of plants are there on Amami Oshima Island?
- 4 Introduction of endemic and rare plants of Amami Oshima
- 5 Plants of Amami Oshima that color the four seasons
- 6 To enjoy plant observation on Amami Oshima Island! Points to be aware of
- 7 Let's look for plants endemic to Amami Oshima! Recommended observation points
- 8 summary
What is the attraction of plants on Amami Oshima Island?
The plants of Amami Oshima are attractive for their diversity nurtured by the warm subtropical climate and rich natural environment.
You can only see it here.Numerous endemic and rare plant speciesThe beauty of the area is that it is a place where visitors can feel the mystery of nature and its life force.
This article will take a closer look at the plants of Amami Oshima, detailing their unique ecology and beauty!
◆A person who is interested in the rich nature and plants of Amami Oshima Island.
◆ Those who are interested in plant protection and environmental conservation on Amami Oshima Island.
◆For those who want to know about endemic and rare plants in Amami Oshima
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Characteristics of plants on Amami Oshima Island
Amami Oshima Island has a subtropical climate that allows a rich variety of plant species to grow.
The warm and humid year-round environment encourages the growth of evergreen broadleaf forests and ferns.
This unique climatic conditions,Formation of unique vegetation not found in other areasI am doing it.â
Plant environment nurtured by the climate and soil of Amami Oshima
Amami Oshima Island belongs to the subtropical zone, with high temperatures, humidity, and precipitation throughout the year, creating a suitable environment for plant growth.
Especially red soil and limestone areas,Evolution of endemic plants with specific soil conditionsI have been urging the
The complex transition of the forests, combined with the effects of typhoons and mountainous terrain, has resulted in a rich ecosystem in which various types of plants live in harmony.
A treasure trove of endemic species found nowhere else
Amami Oshima Island is home to a number of plants endemic to the island, including Amami tenansho and Amami awagoke moss.
The long geological isolation and unique climatic environment have resulted in a process of evolution that has given rise to plant species unique to the region and not found elsewhere.
These endemic species are ecologically valuable,Very high academic and conservation valueIt is considered to be a
Reasons for World Natural Heritage registration
Amami Oshima Island will be included in the list in 2021, along with Tokunoshima Island, northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island.Registered as a World Natural Heritage siteThe first time the company was founded, it was in the process of being reorganized into a new company.
One reason for this is the unparalleled diversity of endemic plants and the unique ecosystems that surround them.
The rich forests, represented by subtropical broad-leaved forests, contain approximately1,800 species of vascular plantshave been identified, and their diversity is highly valued worldwide.
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Endangered Species and Conservation Efforts
A number of endangered plant species have been reported on Amami Oshima Island, and many are listed on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment.
For example, "Amami seika" and "Amami hana-warabi" have been decreasing in their native habitats andPopulation plummets due to non-native speciesThe company is doing so.
Monitoring and protection activities by local governments and environmental groups are underway to conserve these rare species.
What kind of plants are there on Amami Oshima Island?
Amami Oshima Island is a treasure house of nature with a rich variety of plants.
The endemic species and rare plants nurtured by the subtropical climate and unique topography are a source of fascination for visitors.
From here,Typical plants unique to Amami Oshimaand explore the secrets of their fascination and ecology.
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Evergreen broad-leaved trees such as sudajii and iju
In the forests of Amami-Oshima, there are many species of trees such as sudajii and iju.Evergreen broadleaf trees are the main component speciesThe first two are the following.
These trees play an important role in the island's ecosystem.
Sudajii, in particular, not only helps stabilize the soil, but also provides an important habitat for many organisms.
A wide variety of ferns and orchids
The island's humid climate creates a rich environment for a variety of ferns and orchid species.
These plants are abundant in the forest understory and around riversides.
Especially rare orchid plants are used by researchers andHigh attention from plant loversWe are collecting the
Introduction of endemic and rare plants of Amami Oshima
Amami Oshima Island has many precious endemic species and rare plants that can only be found here.
These plants, which have evolved uniquely over the years, play an important role in the island's ecosystem.
Next,Special plants produced by the nature of Amami Oshimain detail and will touch on the charms of the project!
jack-in-the-pulpit
authorityWikipedia
Amami tenansho is a perennial herb of the satoidea family found on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima Island. It produces tubular flowers with characteristic flame bracts in spring.
This plant is native to the moist forest floor,Blooms from February to April.
However, there is concern about habitat loss due to development and the impact of non-native species,Designated as Endangered Ib.The company has been
Samoan mullet goby (Mugilogobius abramus)
Amami asebi is an evergreen shrub of the azalea family that grows wild on the rocks in the mountains of Amami Oshima, and was recognized as a new species in 2010, different from Ryukyu asebi.
Characterized by wide, fleshy leaves and,Large, pure white, urn-shaped flowers bloom from February to March.are listed as follows♪
Because of its beauty, it has been collected for horticultural purposes and is rarely seen in its native habitat, so it has been designated as a rare wild animal and plant in Kagoshima Prefecture, and protection activities are underway.
Climacium japonicum (species of moss)
authorityWildflowers of the Four Seasons
Amamiawagoke grows along mountain streams and on wet rocks on Amami Oshima Island.Small perennial herb.
Requires high humidity,Delicate leaves resembling moss.and has a unique beauty.
Because of its limited habitat, there is concern about the impact of environmental change and development, and conservation is important.
Asarum caulescens (species of wild ginger)
Fusinokan-aoi is a perennial plant endemic to Amami Oshima, near the ground.Large, uniquely shaped flowersis a feature of this product.
It has evergreen leaves and grows mainly in moist environments on the forest floor.
However, development and the impact of invasive alien species have reduced the habitat, and conservation measures are required.
Plants of Amami Oshima that color the four seasons
Amami Oshima Island is attractive for its rich nature that changes from season to season, and visitors can enjoy the appearance of different plants in each season!
From fresh greenery in spring, flowers in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and peaceful winter scenery, you will discover something new every time you visit.
Plants that can be seen in every seasonand guide you on a journey to a deeper appreciation of the nature of Amami Oshima♪.
spring
In spring on Amami Oshima Island, the mild climate causes a wide variety of plants to sprout, and the entire island is covered in colorful flowers.
Endemic plants such as amami violets and amami seika are at their best, and you can feel the breath of spring as you walk along the mountains and forest trails.
This is the season when you can feel the vibrancy of life on your skin,Great time to enjoy plant observation.Â
sweet violet (Viola odorata)
authorityWikipedia
Amami violet is a perennial herb of the violet family that grows wild on Amami Oshima Island, and produces pretty, pale purple flowers in spring.
It grows mainly on bright forest floors and grasslands in mountainous areas and prefers moist environments.
Its beautiful flower form is,A tradition that heralds the arrival of springIt is a delight to the eyes of visitors as a
Amami shark (Carcharhinus amamiensis, species of circumglobal requiem shark)
Amami seishika is a small evergreen tree native to Amami Oshima Island that produces pale pink flowers in spring.
This plant grows wild mainly on rocky slopes and slopes in mountainous areas, and because of its beautiful flowersof high ornamental valueThe garden is a delight to the eyes of visitors.
However, the population has been reported to be declining and is now considered an endangered species that requires protection.
summer
Summer is the season when colorful plants shine with vitality in the richness of nature.
On the mountain slopes, the Uke Lily, with its large white flowers, is at its best, while the Amami Iwautiwa, with its unique leaf shape, sways coolly on the rocky terrain.
These plants grow in the hot and humid climate characteristic of the subtropical zone,Attractions of Amami Oshima unique to summerâ
common purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
authorityKagoshima Prefectural Board of Education
Uke lily is a perennial herb of the lily family distributed from Amami Oshima to Tokunoshima, and was so named because it is abundant on Ukejima.
The grass is 40 to 80 centimeters tall, with large white flowers and a strong fragrance,Flowering season is about 2 weeks from early to mid June.It is.
Mainly growing wild on rocky slopes in mountainous areas, its population has been decreasing due to environmental changes and collection for horticultural purposes, and it is listed as an endangered species I on the Kagoshima Prefecture Red List.
Meliosma rigida (species of flowering plant)
Amami iwauchiwa is a perennial plant belonging to the family Iwauchinoideae and endemic to Amami Oshima Island.
It grows wild mainly on rocky and wet slopes in mountainous areas,Rounded leaves and pale pink flowers in springis distinctive.
While its beauty makes it highly ornamental, there is concern that its population is declining due to its limited habitat and the effects of environmental changes, and conservation is required.
autumn
On Amami Oshima Island in autumn, cool breezes and colorful plants make the island's nature even more attractive.
Autumn flowers, including the rufous tussock, are dainty at forest edges and in meadows, delighting the eyes of visitors.
If you observe the unique autumn plants of Amami Oshima, nurtured by the mild tropical climate,The abundance of life with the changing of the seasonsYou will be able to feel the
spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias)
authorityMainichi Newspapers
Ryukyu-suzukake is a perennial herb distributed in Amami-Oshima, Kikai-jima, and Okinawa-jima in autumn.White flowers with light purple tintsThe flowers are produced in spikes.
It grows wild mainly in mountainous areas on rocky slopes and forest edges, with stems spreading like a ground crawler and reaching 30 to 100 cm in length.
It was designated as an extinct species at one time, but is now classified as Endangered IIA on the Red List of the Ministry of the Environment, and its collection is prohibited in the five municipalities of Amami Oshima under the Rare Wildlife and Plant Protection Ordinance.
winter
Winter on Amami Oshima is characterized by a mild climate, which gives the island a different natural appearance from that of the mainland.
While many plants go dormant in cold regions, the island is lush with greenery even in winter, and one can feel a certain life in the quietness of the island.
Through the nature of Amami Oshima you can feel the colors even in the cold season,The toughness of plants and the rhythm of lifeLet's feel the
mangrove (of family Rhizophoraceae)
authorityA Gift from the Mountains
Amami tenansho is a perennial herb of the satoidea family endemic to the Amami Islands, found on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima.
It grows wild in evergreen forests in mountainous areas, growing 20 to 50 cm tall, with 2 to 3 leaves and 15 to 19 small leaves spreading out like bird's feet,Shaped like a bird with its wings spreadThe company has been working on a new project.
The flowering season is from January to April. The floral part, called a flame bract, is green on the outside and greenish-white on the inside and has a unique shape.
higan cherry (species of weeping cherry tree, Prunus subhirtella)
On Amami Oshima Island, the higan cherry blossoms bloom bright pink during the cold winter months, adding color to the island's landscape.
They are usually at their best from late January to early February, especially at the Amami Nature Observation Forest in Ryugo Town,About 1,000 higanzakura cherry treesare in full bloom and attract visitors.
This is the best season for nature observation and photography on Amami Oshima because wild birds can be observed along with the higanzakura flowers.
To enjoy plant observation in Amami Oshima!
Points to note that you should know
When enjoying plant observation, respect the natural environment,Do not damage plants or their habitatsThe following is a brief overview of the process of creating a new product.
Especially in areas such as Amami Oshima where there are many rare endemic species, designated observation paths and trails should be followed,No unauthorized entryIt is important to
This will help protect valuable plant resources and future generations will be able to enjoy the beauty of nature, so good manners are required for observation.
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Let's look for endemic plants of Amami Oshima!
Recommended observation points
If you want to enjoy plant observation on Amami Oshima, it is essential to visit natural observation spots!
The island has forests and mangrove forests where rare endemic plants can be found, as well as seasonal flowers.
Guided tours and walking trails are available at these spots,From beginners to plant loversYou can enjoy observation without anxiety.
Kanasakubara virgin forest
The Kinsaku Primeval Forest is a precious natural environment rich in subtropical broad-leaved trees of Amami Oshima.
Ferns such as the giant lizard-head and other ferns grow in clusters, and rare plants and animals inhabit the area, including the Lidth's jay, a national natural treasure, and the tree lizard.
This virgin forest,Mysterious atmosphere reminiscent of an ancient forestThe air is filled with a sense of mystery, and it attracts visitors to the area.
◆Access: 40 minutes by car from Amami City Hall
↓About the Kinsaku Plains Wilderness Forest
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Mt. Yuan
Located in the center of Amami Oshima Island, "Yowan-dake" is a 694.3 meter-high mountain,A popular spot for mountain climbing and nature observation.
A subtropical evergreen forest spreads in the surrounding area, and many endemic species and rare plants unique to Amami Oshima grow there.
There are well-maintained trails that can be enjoyed by both beginners and advanced climbers.
◆Access: 15 minutes by car from Uken Village Hall
↓About ↓Yuwan Mt.
Kuroshio Forest Mangrove Park
Kuroshio no Mori Mangrove Park is located in Sumiyo-cho, Amami-Oshima Island.Nature experience-type facilitiesand is surrounded by a rich mangrove flora.
In the park, through canoeing and exhibits in the mangrove pavilion,Learn about the unique plant ecosystem of Amami OshimaIn addition, you will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of other plants.
This is a spot where you can enjoy the nature of Amami Oshima while observing plants, selling local specialties and providing a wealth of tourist information.
◆Access: Approximately 70 minutes by car from Amami Airport
↓About Kuroshio Forest
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Amami Nature Observation Forest
Amami Nature Observation Forest is a nature park located in the Nagumo mountain range in the northern part of Amami Oshima,Amami Islands National Park Type 1 Special AreaThe name is designated in the
The park has a 2.5-km promenade where visitors can observe endemic plants, wild birds, and insects while strolling through a subtropical broad-leaved forest.
From the observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Ryugo Bay, Mt. Yawan, and Kikai Island, and it is a popular spot for many visitors to enjoy the changing nature of the four seasons.
◆Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Amami Airport
↓About Amami Nature Observation Forest
summary
Amami Oshima Island is a special place where a wide variety of plants thrive due to its unique climate and geography.
Nature is rich with endemic and rare species,New discoveries and impressions for visitorsIt also brings the
Please enjoy observing plants on Amami Oshima and feel the importance of preserving their beauty.
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