Castanopsis
Fagaceae
- Range
- From mainland Japan to the Ryukyu Islands, and Jeju Island
In the diorama, it towers above and provides a home for animals.
Castanopsis is a quintessential tree of Tokunoshima's forests. It can grow to 20 m tall or more, with a trunk diameter exceeding 1 m. In spring, the fragrance of its flowers can be detected even from town areas, attracting many insects. In autumn, the tree bears acorns, which provide important nutrition for animals including the Amami rabbit. Larger trees often develop hollows in their trunks that serve as homes for creatures like Ryukyu long-furred rat and Neolucanus protogenetivus protogenetivus. Castanopsis has also played a significant role in human life, as people have traditionally consumed its acorns, and utilized its timber. It truly supports the nature, culture, and history of Tokunoshima in every way.
Habitat of This Animal:
A:Forest along the valley - A2:Forest along the mountain streams
In Tokunoshima Island, abundant rainwater carved the ground, forming many rows of ridges and valleys. Plants adapting to the flowing and drying up of water grow in the harsh environment, where water swells and depletes every time rain falls. The waterfront is also a habitat for many creatures, including endemic species, with frogs and dragonflies breeding.
This A2:Forest along the mountain streams