Discover the delicate beauty of Okinawa's coral reefs and learn about global conservation efforts

Sekisei Lagoon in Okinawa is Japan's largest coral reef site. Located between the islands of Ishigakijima and Iriomotejima, the site is home to more than 350 species of coral. These corals are a delicate but integral part of the biodiverse ecosystem. The International Coral Reef Research and Monitoring Center is dedicated to educating about coral and promoting reef conservation initiatives. The Center is on Ishigakijima Island, the waters of which have some of Japan’s richest reefs.

The International Coral Reef Research and Monitoring Center has a reference room, laboratory, coral specimen corner, and lecture room. Coral skeletons from the waters around Ishigakijima Island are exhibited in the coral specimen corner with information about the reefs they come from. The Center also organizes educational events for the local community, such as talks and observational tours.

Researchers conduct regular reef monitoring activities in Sekisei Lagoon and around Ishigakijima. They collect data to ascertain the condition of coral habitats and identify the cause of habitat disturbances. They publish the data online and share it with other conservation groups.

The Center is the base station for Japan and East Asia in the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN). This international body seeks to establish consensus on coral reef management and implement conservation and restoration initiatives around the globe. With prior arrangements, scientists, researchers, or anyone involved in coral conservation can access the reference materials at the International Coral Reef Research and Monitoring Center and use the facility as a base for their fieldwork.