The discovery and ex-situ conservation of Kyoto Prefecture critically endangered species "mizu-aoi" (Monochoria Korsakowii) at Shosei-en Garden, a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty.

Abstract

In 2018, mizu-aoi (Monochoria korsakowii), designated a critically endangered species by the Red Databook of Kyoto Prefecture 2015, was discovered at Shosei-en Garden, which neighbors and belongs to Higashi Honganji (Shinshu Otani-ha). This was the first sighting of this flower blooming since 2005, a period of 13 years. The reason for its reappearance may be inferred to be sleeping buried seeds that were reawakened after dredging Ingetsu-chi Pond for conservation repairs. In addition to displaying exhibits at Shosei-en Garden's entrance, Ueyakato Landscape has conducted ex-situ conservation in cooperation with other organizations to maintain the plant's population and genetic diversity. In the future, we hope to grow mizu-aoi in its native habitat once again.