About Me
I am a researcher at the Geological Survey of Japan, AIST, with a primary focus on the molecular ecology, taxonomy, and systematics of Anthozoa. My work aims to understand genetic and species diversity and evolutionary relationships through an integrative approach combining morphological and molecular data.
In addition to taxonomic studies, I investigate deep-sea ecosystems and assess the impacts of human activities-such as deep-sea resource extraction-on benthic communities.
Research
Taxonomy and Systematics of Anthozoa
Research on the diversity and classification of Anthozoa, with an emphasis on zoantharians. This work integrates morphological observations with molecular phylogenetics to resolve species boundaries and infer evolutionary relationships. I am also interested in organisms symbiotic with Anthozoa, studying their associations from a molecular phylogenetic perspective.
Molecular Ecology
Research focusing on genetic connectivity of organisms ranging from coral reefs to deep-sea environments. This work explores patterns of gene flow and population structure using molecular markers, with the aim of understanding dispersal processes and informing conservation and management strategies.
Environmental Impact Assessment
Research on environmental impact assessment (EIA) of deep-sea resource extraction, such as cobalt-rich crusts and methane hydrates, focusing on changes in benthic communities and ecosystem responses to disturbance. This work aims to improve baseline understanding and contribute to the development of robust assessment frameworks.
Updates
Mar 19, 2026
Corallizoanthus aureus was selected as one of the "Ten Remarkable New Marine Species from 2025."