Island Research Institute Symposium: “The Precious Citrus of Islands—Exploring Their Characteristics and Potential”
International Center for Island Studies
http://cpi.kagoshima-u.ac.jp/jp/seminar/symposium/20251129/index.html- kikai
Background and objectives of activities
Citrus originated in Assam, India, and Yunnan, China, primarily expanding its range eastward. Located at the eastern edge, Japan became separated from the Eurasian continent when the Sea of Japan formed during the Miocene epoch (23 million to 5.3 million years ago). Consequently, the native species “Shikwasa” and “Tachibana” are unique and precious to Japan, found nowhere else. Subsequently, in the Ryukyu Islands, various citrus varieties emerged through hybridization between shikwasa and introduced species, as well as crossbreeding among these hybrids.
Summary of Activities
On Kikai Island, varieties such as “Kuri-ha,” “Kerajimikan,” “Shiku,” “Tokku,” and “Fusu” are cultivated and utilized. This symposium will introduce the latest findings on the characteristics of native citrus varieties in Amami and Okinawa. We also aim to explore new possibilities for these native citrus varieties together with you, to further leverage them as resources for island revitalization.
Expected Benefits
Discussing the new potential of native citrus as a resource for revitalizing the island will contribute to the conservation and utilization of genetic resources.