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Institute of Freshwater Biology, Nagano University
IFB Logo
IFB Logo
Building of the Institute of Freshwater Biology, Nagano University
Building of the Institute of Freshwater Biology, Nagano University
Building of the Institute of Freshwater Biology, Nagano University
EstablishedApril 1, 2021
Address1088 Komaki, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, 386-0031, Japan
WebsiteInstitute of Freshwater Biology

The Institute of Freshwater Biology (IFB), an affiliated research institute of Nagano University, is located at 1088 Komaki, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, near the Chikuma River. The Institute was officially established on April 1, 2021, and occupies a 24,000-square-meter facility acquired by Nagano University from the Ministry of Finance of Japan on July 30, 2021. IFB focuses on research and education in freshwater biology and ecology, emphasizing interdisciplinary studies in genetics, statistics, and mathematical biology.[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8]

The Institute has state-of-the-art research facilities, including two research buildings, outdoor experimental ponds using water from the Chikuma River, indoor FRP breeding tanks supplied with well water, and a large wet lab. Advanced equipment, such as the NextSeq 550 next-generation sequencer, supports cutting-edge biological research. IFB's location adjacent to the Chikuma River provides a natural environment for field work and research on aquatic ecosystems.

The activities of the Institute are focused on three main objectives:

  1. To study the ecological and biological dynamics of the freshwater ecosystems.
  2. To establish national and international research and education networks.
  3. To promote advances in biological research and aquaculture technologies.

The Institute is led by a Director (Professor) and supported by a team of staff including an Associate Professor, a Visiting Associate Professor, research assistants, administrative staff, and technical staff.

Main Research Projects

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The Institute of Freshwater Biology makes full use of its facilities and equipment to carry out various research initiatives, many of which are externally funded. Current projects include

River Ecology Research for the Restoration of the Chikuma River

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This project aims to improve river management and environmental restoration in the Chikuma River basin. Researchers will work with river managers to apply interdisciplinary approaches that integrate ecology, information science, and river engineering. This initiative aims to improve river maintenance practices and contribute to sustainable environmental management (funded by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism).

Research on the Management of the Japanese Eel Population (Japanese Eel Unit)

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Researchers are developing and analyzing management strategies to assess the status of Japanese eel populations. This project uses mathematical modeling, genetic data, catch trends, and satellite tagging to understand extinction risks and improve pond management for eel conservation (funded by the Fisheries Agency, Japan).

Animal Personality Research

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This project investigates variation in animal behavior and personality traits, such as boldness and aggression, which often occur as behavioral syndromes. Using mixed effects models and rigorous controls for genetics and environmental factors, the study aims to uncover adaptive patterns of animal personality through detailed statistical analyses.

Research on Population Dynamics of Japanese Crucian Carp (Carassius auratus)

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This research addresses fundamental questions about the evolution of sex by studying the population dynamics of Japanese crucian carp, which includes both asexual and sexual forms. Using laboratory ponds and experimental facilities, researchers are investigating genetic exchange mechanisms and coexistence strategies to understand the maintenance of sexual reproduction in these populations.

Location

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  • 1088 Komaki, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, 386-0031, Japan

References

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See also

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