アニメーション作品におけるミミズ表象 間接的な自然体験の充実に向けて

抄録

This exploratory study examines the portrayal of earthworms in Japanese animation as a form of indirect nature experience, contributing to a fair and comprehensive understanding of ecosystems. Given the crucial ecological roles of earthworms juxtaposed with their typically negative public perception, animation provides a unique medium for analyzing how nature is socially constructed through media. 22 earthworm characters were selected, appearing in 21 television animations available on prominent streaming platforms. Characters were assessed based on morphology, behavior, intelligence, emotions, and narrative roles. Findings reveal significant deviations from biological realities, including simplified morphology, exaggerated size variations, and anthropomorphic attributes. Earthworm behaviors rarely corresponded to their ecological functions, often portrayed through unrealistic movements and habitats. Intelligence and emotions were variably depicted, with a few cases presenting complex social interactions or distinct gender roles contrary to biological traits. These portrayals potentially influence viewers’ perceptions of nature, underscoring the need to balance appealing storytelling with ecological accuracy. This study suggests integrating scientifically accurate supplementary materials or direct nature experiences alongside media consumption to foster unbiased ecological awareness. Future expansions into a citizen-science approach are proposed to analyze broader media forms and species, enhancing public engagement in biodiversity conservation.