Project Report

Overseas Fellowship Program Participant: FY2022 First Call Short-Term Program
Minagi Naka (Yokohama National University)

I stayed on Ellesmere Island in the Elizabeth Islands, Canada, and investigated terrestrial ecosystems to understand soil microbial community succession response to global warming in the High Arctic.

The area around the foreland of the Arklio glacier, where the study was conducted, is well-vegetated despite its location in the High Arctic. Many plants were observed during the survey, including Salix arctica, which has been growing on the ground for hundreds of years, and Dryas octopetala, which can only habitat in limited alpine areas in Japan. During this survey, I collected soil samples in moraines (sediments formed during the glacial retreat) of different ages. Deeper soil and richer vegetation were observed as the older the moraines and I was impressed by the gradation of ecosystems and the power of life.

On the other hand, during the field research, I also witnessed the effects of global warming. I was surprised at the highest temperature exceeded 20°C and the edge of the glacier had retreated by more than 100 m since the survey 19 years ago. I believe that I must communicate the rapid changes in the Arctic caused by global warming as a witness to this situation.

Camping during the research was also a valuable experience. Life without internet access, bathrooms and toilets was not so inconvenient for me. On the contrary, I liked life without a phone and the internet because my head became clearer and my eyesight seemed to have improved. However, it was hard to fight against a large number of mosquitoes all day long. The racket that can remove mosquitoes by electric shock was very useful and I hope it will be a help for those who are planning to go to the Arctic.

I will never forget the wonderful scenery of Ellesmere Island on a sunny day. I really appreciate the ArCS II Overseas Fellowship Program as well as the assistance and support of all people.