Ryukyu pine
Pinaceae
- Range
- Endemic to the Ryukyu Islands (From the Tokara Islands to Yonaguni-jima)
The Ryukyu pine is an evergreen tree found in dry, sunlit areas such as coastlines and along ridges. As the only native member of the pine family in the Ryukyu Islands, it is one of the trees that defines the region’s forests. It can grow up to 25 m tall and 1 m in diameter. In the past, it was used as fuel for boiling salt and sugar cane juice, and also as torches for izari fishing.
Habitat of This Animal:
B:Forest along the mountain ridge - B1:Forest near the settlement
Most of the forests in Tokunoshima Island are secondary forests that were once cleared in the past. Especially near the settlements, there are forests that have become well-lit thanks to recent pruning. Remains of paths, charcoal kilns, and fields form a reminder of the relationship between people and nature. Such forests accessible from settlements are inhabited by many living creatures fond of the well-lit environment.
This B1:Forest near the settlement