Faculty of Horticulture, Chiba University
Professor / Vice Dean・Research on environmentally friendly pest management
Instead of resorting to the complete elimination of pests through chemical pesticide spraying in vegetable fields and paddy fields, I employ methods like biological control using natural predator insects and physical control using night-time lighting. My aim is to conduct basic and applied research on reducing pest populations to levels that do not cause damage and then maintain those populations at that density through "Integrated Pest Management (IPM)".
・Molecular phylogenetic studies and intraspecific variation analysis of insects through their genes
I investigate DNA sequences of genes to discern differences between species of Noctuids. Additionally, I examine individual populations within species of insects with wide distribution to clarify intra-species variations. Notable findings from intraspecies mutation analysis include the differentiation of yellow butterfly, Eurema hecabe into Northern species (E.mandarina) and Southern species (E. hecabe), and the discovery of the cryptic species Chrysoperla nigrocapitata (Kurozu Yamato lacewing) within C. nipponensis lacewing group.
Recent Topics of Interests:
・Linage replacement of Endosymbiotic bacteria in insects, Wolbachia, in a short period of time
・The effect of ultraviolet radiation on beneficial insects
・Intraspecific variation analysis in dragonflies
Motto in Research or in Life:
・Research is not something one can do alone; it is enjoyable to clarify fascinating matters by engaging with people from various backgrounds.
・Similarly, in life, I feel that my current state is the result of encounters and interactions with diverse individuals, and I am progressing positively in both personal and professional aspects.
Hobby / Holiday
・I am passionate about photographing insects，specifically dragonflies and damselflies. On sunny weekends, I go out to take pictures.
・Music appreciation (Popular music, especially the Beatles, rock and pop from the 70's and 80's: mainly enjoying during driving)
・Reading (related to the above-mentioned hobbies and mystery novels)
