PREDICITION OF HABITAT SUITABILITY FOR MUDSKIPPER IN THE MAIN ISLAND OF OKINAWA

Abstract

Mudflats have an important role as habitats of aquatic near-threatened species such as mudskipper. However, the study of mudflat environment is still limited especially in Okinawa. The objective of this study is to consider the method of conservation and restoration of mudskipper habitat in the main island of Okinawa. The prediction models of mudskipper′s habitat in individual mudflats and extensive distribution of mudflat for the habitat in the main island of Okinawa are developed using logistic regression analysis. The results indicate that the mudskipper′s habitat decreased by reclamation work in Nakagusuku Bay, and the mudflat suitable for the mudskipper′s habitat is limited to Nakagusuku Bay and Oura Bay in the main island of Okinawa.