Foraging of Endangered and Endemic Plant Species by a Non-Native Sika Deer Found in the Northern Part of Okinawa-Jima Island, Japan: Evidence from Fecal DNA Metabarcoding Analysis

A non-native sika deer (Cervus nippon) was discovered in the northern part of Okinawa-Jima Island raising concerns about its potential impact on endangered and endemic plant species. Fecal DNA metabarcoding analysis of one fecal sample from the deer revealed 24 plant species, including two endemic to the Ryukyu Islands, with one listed as critically endangered (CR) by Japan's Environment Ministry. The study suggests that if sika deer establish a population in this region, they could pose significant threats to local biodiversity and ecosystems. Immediate measures are recommended to prevent further invasions and mitigate potential ecological damage.

Kobayashi, S., Asato, H., Nakata, K., Nagata, J., & Watari, Y. (2026). Foraging of Endangered and Endemic Plant Species by a Non-Native Sika Deer Found in the Northern Part of Okinawa-Jima Island, Japan: Evidence from Fecal DNA Metabarcoding Analysis. Mammal Study, 51(2), 199–204. https://doi.org/10.3106/ms2025-0049