NYK and Nara University of Education have signed a joint research project to study the migratory routes and timing of the wandering glider, Pantala flavescens. Leveraging NYK-operated vessels that travel the world’s oceans, the project will collect photos, videos, and location data of P. flavescens and other insects observed during voyages, with the aim of clarifying their migratory routes and timing. This is the world’s first initiative in which a corporation and an academic institution have collaborated to use a large number of vessels sailing around the world to conduct ecological surveys of P. flavescens migrating over the ocean. This research is being conducted in partnership with the Usubaki Project,* a nationwide citizen science marking survey investigating the migration of P. flavescens in Japan, to shed light on the actual migration patterns of the species.

Pantala flavescens is found worldwide and is known for its ability to migrate across oceans. Due to their vast numbers and long-distance migrations, P. flavescens have the potential to significantly impact ecosystems in various regions. However, much about their ecology remains unknown. The upcoming offshore survey is expected to shed light on the long-distance migration of P. flavescens and help us better understand how ecosystems are connected on a global scale. NYK has already begun conducting surveys on some of its vessels and is providing observational data to support this research.

The NYK Group, guided by a management policy that prioritizes sustainability at its core, is proactively addressing social and environmental challenges under the theme of “Giving back to the oceans, the earth, and people.” By leveraging our global network that spans the world’s seas, we are committed to advancing ecosystem research and generating new insights that benefit both nature and society.

* Usubaki project
Marks are placed on the wings of P. flavescens to track their migration timing and routes. Over 100,000 dragonflies have been marked throughout Japan. Yuta Ichikawa of Aichi Prefectural Okazaki High School and Associate Professor Tatsuro Konagaya of Nara University of Education oversee the survey.

Nara University of Education
Secretariat and Public Relations Section, General Affairs Division
Tel: +81-742-27-9104
Email: kikaku-kouhou@nara-edu.ac.jp

Nara University of Education
Tatsuro Konagaya, Science Education
TEL：+81-742-27-9197
E-mail：konagaya.tatsuro.br@cc.nara-edu.ac.jp

NYK Line
Media Relations Team, Corporate Communication Group
Email: NYKJP.ML.MEDIA＠nykgroup.com