The destruction of coral reefs around the world is progressing rapidly, as a result of human activity on land and by global environmental changes. Regions of high production and biological diversity, coral reefs are highly vulnerable to changes. We need to evaluate the conditions of the coral reef ecosystem and to understand the effects of environmental changes on the coral reefs.
As part of the program for protecting coral reefs, we are currently developing an instrument for checking the condition of coral reefs and performing studies on observation techniques for evaluating the condition of the coral reefs through biological, chemical, and physical observations. So far, we have conducted in-situ research on coral reefs at Ishigaki Island and collected data on the biological community, nutrients, and seawater current. We are attempting to create a model for coral reefs.
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A "submarine microscope" for evaluating the condition of a coral reef |
To create a safe and efficient manned submersible technology, we are conducting comprehensive research and development on diving technology, including studies in the field of submarine medicine and physiology. Our present goal is to develop a (scientific) diving technology for researchers, who have urgent need for manned submersibles. The current list of specific projects includes: the construction of a nation-wide network of users (diving scientists), studies on in vivo reactions during dives under nitrox gas saturated conditions, development of an environment control system to be used in the (planned) underwater laboratory, construction of decompression tables for insuring the safety of scientists, evaluation and studies of underwater breathing apparatus, and basic medical and physiological studies on adaptation to high-pressure environments, dysbarism, and health care.
 A sketch of the planned "underwater laboratory" for "scientific diving," in which researchers themselves conduct research underwater and on the seafloor |
