ABSTRACT : The holding ability of four types of anchors was examined in relation to the resistance against the towing rope set at various angles. Experiments were performed using four type anchors (VDR-type, VDH-type, VDS-type and VDQ-type). These anchors were pulled using the Research Vessel, HOKUTO (19T). The tension force was measured using a loadcell connected to the towing rope. The experimental results indicated that the VDS-type anchor showed the highest resistance, the VDR-type anchor showed the most stable resistance, and the DVQ-type anchor showed the lowest resistance.

ABSTRACT: In the country of South-Pacific Island, the coastal erosion due to sea-level rise with global warming is a remarkable concern. When the adaptation plan in the island country is considered, the land-use change based on human activities and decrease in the coastal vegetation becomes an important issue. Therefore, tracing and analysis of the history of land cover and coastal vegetation for recent 20 years on Fongafale island of Funafuti atoll, Tuvalu has conducted in this study. For the analysis, previously investigated data of the geographical map, vegetation map and aerial photograph were collected and then the change is identified by comparison with high-resolution satellite image. Through the investigation the results of this study could be described as follows: 1） Decrease areas of the coastal vegetation were extending in the direction of the north and south-west from the centre of the Fongafale Island. 2） The decrease of the coastal vegetation was more remarkable in the ocean side compare to lagoon side.

ABSTRACT : Mikawa Port in Ise-Mikawa Bay, Japan is now revising its original port development plan. To assess direct and indirect impacts on a rich short-necked clam habitat by additional 200 ha reclamation, “Ecosystem Approach” had been employed. Dynamics of environment such as life-stage of the clam, its larvae transport network (Ecosystem network), multi-phased impact (water quality, sediment quality, and physical condition), and multi-scale impact by small eddies generated around reclaimed lands were determined. These scientifically sounds ecosystem approach enabling integrated mitigations for impact of port development with sustainable use of tidal-flat ecosystem.