From the beginning of February to the end of April, the IMS Lab has the pleasure of being joined by Mr. Nicolo Ferraris from Wageningen University. During his 3-month exchange program, Nicolo will be assisting on the HABs research project.
Statement from Nicolo:
Hi! I’m Nicolo, an Italian MSc Biology student from Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands, where I specialized in Molecular Ecology. I just finished my thesis on investigating sex determination in invasive lionfish (Pterois miles), which got me hooked on combining lab work with bioinformatics. I’ve always been really interested in applied molecular biology, especially next-generation sequencing technologies like Nanopore for biodiversity monitoring.
I arrived in Sendai on February 1st and have been loving the experience so far. The people in the lab are great and made me feel right at home since day one. I’ve been helping Sang with organizing samples, joined him for field sampling out in Onagawa (which was amazing!), and have been assisting with eDNA extractions and Planktoscope processing. During the Nanopore training workshop in mid-February, I got hands-on experience with library prep and running the GridION for environmental DNA samples across different locations and gene regions. After the workshop, I noticed the bioinformatics workflow was a bit over-complicated, so I introduced the team to EPI2ME, Oxford Nanopore’s platform, and gave everyone a quick tutorial on how to use it. Since then, I’ve been working through the sequenced samples and generating preliminary taxonomic results for our HAB species and broader plankton communities. Outside of lab work, I’ve been enjoying joking around with the friends I made here, playing basketball and volleyball, indulging in the excellent food, and exploring Sendai!
New Research: A comparative molecular study of rhizostome jellyfishes from Japan reveals variability in Symbiodiniaceae taxon associations and cassiosome production.
Led by Kei Chloe Tan , this study dives deep into the complex world of Rhizostomeae that play massive roles in Asian ecology and industry.
What makes these jellies unique?
Rhizostome jellyfishes are unlike your average medusa. They don’t have long, trailing tentacles neither other structures at the eadg of theyr bell; they have eight highly branched oral arms, along which there are suctorial minimouth orifices.
Our study focused on three main goals:
- Identity: Using DNA barcoding to accurately identify species in Japanese waters.
- Partnership: Mapping which types of algae live inside which jellyfish.
- The Sting: Identifying which species produce cassiosomes—the “mucus grenades” responsible for the mysterious “stinging water” syndrome.
Key Discoveries
- A New Neighbor: We discovered that Cassiopea (Upside-down jellyfish) found in Kagoshima likely represents a new, undescribed species.
- Symbiotic Flexibility: We found that these jellyfishes are “plastic” in their partnerships, meaning the same species of jellyfish can host different types of algae (Symbiodinium, Cladocopium, or Durusdinium) depending on the individual.
- The “Grenade” Evolution: We confirmed that cassiosome production is a unique trait of the suborder Kolpophorae. Interestingly, we found that young jellies might not produce them until they reach a certain developmental stage.
“This research provides a baseline for understanding how jellyfish and algae co-evolve, helping us manage coastal ecosystems and the jellyfish fisheries that are so vital to the region.” — Chloe Tan, Lead Author
Lab Work in Action
This paper wasn’t just about sequences; it combined advanced molecular techniques with classic microscopy.
- Tandem DNA Amplification: Chloe developed a new method to simultaneously sequence the DNA of both the jellyfish host and its tiny algal residents.
- Microscopy: We captured high-resolution images of the cassiosomes—clusters of stinging cells (nematocysts) with algae at their core—proving exactly how these “contactless stings” work.
Read the Full Paper
Interested in the molecular data or the high-resolution phylogenetic trees? You can find the full study here:
カツオノエボシは1種ではなかった：5種への再分類と新種「ミカヅキノエボシ」の命名 執筆：彩恵 りり
サイエンスライターの彩恵りり氏が、カツオノエボシ属（Physalia属）が5種に再分類された最新の研究について詳しく解説してくださいました。これら新種のうち1種の発見に当研究室が貢献したことを、大変光栄に思います。
Mikazuki no Eboshi as one of the 14 New and Unusual Species of 2025 by Discover
Alongside 13 other new species is our lab’s discovery, the Mikazuki no Eboshi (Physalia mikazuki).
These other new species are also incredibly interesting discoveries, spanning a wide range of habitats and phyla. Each has truly unique characteristics and is well worth a look.
Find the original material at:
Find the original scientific paper of our discovery here:
Nikkei reported on Mikazuki no Eboshi: 宮城県で新種のクラゲ、伊達政宗にちなんで命名 東北大学
Our lab’s discovery was featured in a Nikkei article. The piece focused on the computer simulation used to estimate the period and travel path of the specimen, as it originated from a different region than the discovery site:
コンピューターを使ったシミュレーション（模擬実験）の結果、神奈川県沖の相模湾などから海流に乗って運ばれた可能性があると分かった。研究成果をまとめた論文は学術誌「フロンティアズ・オブ・マリン・サイエンス」に掲載された。
Find the original material at:
Find the original scientific paper here:
【Vtuberコラボ】不思議すぎるクラゲ🪼ミカヅキノエボシについて語ろう～
New jellyfish species “Mikazuki no Eboshi” first confirmed in Tohoku
By: 官庁通信デジタル _ KANCHO TSUSHIN DIGITAL
A group led by Professor Cheryl Ames of Tohoku University has discovered a new species of jellyfish, the “Mikazuki no Eboshi” This is the first time that a highly venomous species of jellyfish, a relative of the Portuguese man-of-war, has been found in Tohoku. They analyze that one of the reasons for its discovery is the abnormal fluctuations in ocean conditions in recent years.
The Portuguese man-of-war lives in tropical and temperate climates. In Japan, it is found from Okinawa to Sagami Bay, but has not been officially confirmed along Japan’s northern coast until now. The crescent-shaped crest of the helmet worn by Date Masamune, a military commander active in the Tohoku region, is the origin of the name.
The Mikazuki fish was collected after being washed up on Gamo Beach in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. It is speculated that the northward movement of the Kuroshio Current carried this species, which lives in southern Japan, to Tohoku. Ocean current simulations suggest that it takes about 30 days for the fish to travel from Sagami Bay to Sendai Bay, and 45 days to reach the coast of Aomori.
The group commented that “this study provides important insights into understanding the movement and dispersal of marine organisms due to climate change,” and added, “Changes in the appearance and distribution of jellyfish have the potential to affect not only ecosystems but also people’s lives and safety, so we need to carefully monitor their trends.”
Find the original material at: 官庁通信デジタル
Find the original scientific paper here
NHK – Coverage – Tohoku University research group names new species after Date Masamune
NHK broadcast the findings of our laboratory. We are exceptionally proud of our team’s achievement and delighted by the public interest generated by our research.
The broadcast provided a concise overview of the discovery and the underlying shift in marine currents that led the specimens to be washed ashore in Sendai Bay.
As Professor Ames stated:
“The discovery of this new species was incredibly exciting and a fortunate find, but it also serves as an indicator that the species is migrating north due to climate change.”
You can access the full NHK coverage and video on their website by clicking the icon below:
And you can find the complete scientific paper here:
A new species of Portuguese man-of-war discoverd for the first time in the tohoku region – Named “Mikazuki no Eboshi” after Date Masamune
2025 | Press Releases and Research Results
Tohoku University just released a press release show casing the most recent lab discovery at Sendai Bay. The before-mentioned “Mikazuki no Eboshi”
The emergence of this species may be related to changes in the marine environment caused by climate change, such as the northward shift of the Kuroshio Current and rising sea temperatures. The northward movement of poisonous species not only changes the ecosystem, but also requires caution when swimming in the sea.
This is the first record of the Portuguese man-of-war genus in the Tohoku region. Furthermore, particle tracking simulations revealed that the northward shift of the Kuroshio Current and rising sea temperatures may be related to the emergence of this species. The observation of the Mikazuki no Eboshi provides important evidence that climate change is affecting the distribution of marine life.
You can find the Scientific paper here:
You can find the full press relese here:
Unlocking the Mysteries of the Wild Ocean
Dr. Cheryl Ames is pioneering accessible and rapid methods for tracking marine biodiversity, with a special focus on box jellyfish and shifting octopus populations.
She uses Environmental DNA (eDNA), a technique that involves analyzing trace amounts of DNA left behind by species in the ocean water. By employing a field-ready eDNA pipeline that includes portable equipment like the Bento Lab, Dr. Ames and her students can conduct on-site PCR and quickly assess species presence, making data generation reliable even in remote areas.
This method allows researchers to generate data for critical issues, such as predicting the presence of highly venomous jellyfish for public safety, and providing sustainable fishing advice to local communities facing dramatic shifts in octopus populations following the 2011 tsunami.
Dr. Ames is committed to making advanced DNA analysis affordable and accessible, ensuring the next generation of scientists can apply these crucial techniques in any environment, regardless of laboratory resources.
This post is based on the article published by Bento Lab.
Find the full content at theyr web site
Find eDNA related work done by the lab here
New Discoveries Rock the Tank: Enoshima Aquarium Faces a Classification Dilemma
Discover the immediate dilemmas facing the Enoshima Aquarium—and what this means for their highly successful Portuguese Man-of-War exhibit.
Following the big splash made by the scientific discoveries originating from our lab, the established understanding of Physalia (the Portuguese Man-of-War) has been revolutionized. Research, which included the recent identification of Physalia mikazuki by our lab, now shows that what was once thought to be a single species first expanded to four and, with our lab’s subsequent discovery, grew to five distinct species in just over three months.
Opening what promises to be an amazing series in the Enoshima Aquarium Trainer’s Journal, Trainer Yamamoto presents a critical series of questions that highlight the practical impact of new taxonomy:
“Will we need to change the scientific names listed on our fish display boards and exhibits? Which species does the Japanese common name ‘Katsuo-no-Eboshi’ actually refer to? Since it is famous as a ‘highly venomous creature,’ are all five species equally dangerous?”
We are closely monitoring the developments at the Enoshima Aquarium and anxiously awaiting the answers to their questions.
It’s amazing to see the far-reaching impact of new and relevant scientific discoveries. You can find the full original post in the Enoshima Aquarium Trainer’s Journal here:
Find our lab mentioned sicentific paper here:
Find the other relevant sientific paper here:
OIST x WPI-AIMEC (Tohoku U & JAMSTEC) Joint Workshop
Changing Marine Ecosystems: Biogeography of Habitat Shifts and Adaptation to Oceanographic Variability
Date
Thursday, November 20, 2025 – 09:00 to Friday, November 21, 2025 – 18:00
This event will be the fifth joint workshop between Tohoku University and OIST since 2021. This time, WPI-AIMEC (Tohoku U & JAMSTEC) is co-organizing the event. It will include presentations that provide an overview of the current status and challenges of research on the marine environment and marine ecosystems, to promote the exchange of knowledge among researchers from Tohoku University, JAMSTEC, OIST, as well as University of the Ryukyus, and the University of Hawai’i. A majority of presentations will be given by early career researchers, with ample time for discussion to consider future collaborations and joint funding applications.
Check for more information here:
This Gorgeous but Dangerous Jellyfish Was Just Discovered off Japan’s Coast
New, Venomous Portuguese Man-of-War Discovered in Japan’s North: Physalia mikazuki
This new species, named Physalia mikazuki (“crescent helmet man-o-war”) in honor of the samurai lord Date Masamune, marks the northernmost recorded presence of the Physalia genus to date, with specimens collected off the coast of northeastern Japan (Sendai Bay).
A student-led research team at Tohoku University (greatly formed by our lab) has formally identified a previously unknown species of the venomous siphonophore, Physalia —commonly known as the Portuguese man-of-war.
Key Scientific Findings:
- New Species Identification: Through detailed morphological examination and genetic analysis, the team confirmed that P. mikazuki is genetically distinct from its tropical relatives, specifically Physalia utriculus, which was previously believed to be the only species of the genus inhabiting Japanese waters.
- Climate-Driven Range Extension: The appearance of P. mikazuki in the colder waters of the Tohoku region suggests a significant shift in marine distribution. Ocean surface current simulations confirmed that the northward extension of the Kuroshio Current, combined with unusually high sea-surface temperatures, likely transported the colonies to Sendai Bay.
- Ecological Significance: The discovery provides direct evidence that climate-related changes in ocean circulation are actively reshaping the distribution of marine species, highlighting the urgency of coastal observation.
The research not only adds a new species to the world’s taxonomic records but also underscores the immediate impact of climate change on ocean ecosystems, influencing where even dangerous marine life can drift and thrive.
Find the original storye at SciTechDaily.com
Find the sicentific paper here:
New Jellyfish Discovery in Japan Is So Weird It Had to Be Named After a Samurai
In a rare marine encounter, researchers in Japan have uncovered a previously unidentified species of Portuguese man-of-war, Physalia mikazuki, off the coast of northeastern Japan. This marks the first time such a venomous jellyfish has been documented so far north in the country, with experts tying its arrival to warmer waters and changing currents.
access the complete story on the IDR(indian defence review) website
Find the original scientific paper here
New Portuguese Man O’ War Species Discovered After Warming Ocean Currents Push It North
A new species of Portuguese man o’ war has been discovered floating in the waters of northeast Japan. Spotted by a student-led research group, the discovery marks a species that has never been seen before in the area, raising questions about shifting distributions of marine creatures due to the effects of climate change.
The lab work is making a big impact in the media. We are proud to display the media coverage here and you can access the complete story on the IFLScience website.
Find the full paper here
Media Spotlight: New Samurai-Named Jellyfish Highlights Climate Change Threat
Our recent research paper, detailing the discovery of a new venomous jellyfish species in Japan, has captured international media attention, with outlets highlighting the fascinating cultural connection of its name and its critical implications for marine science.
The discovery, published in Frontiers in Marine Science, confirms the existence of Physalia mikazuki sp. nov.—a new type of Portuguese Man-of-War found unexpectedly far north in Japan’s Tohoku region.
A Name Worthy of a Warrior
The media coverage, including articles from Tohoku University, Asia Research News, and ScienceDaily, emphasized the unique story behind the new species’ name. The jellyfish was named P. mikazuki (“crescent helmet man-o-war”) as an homage to the legendary samurai warrior and feudal lord of Sendai, Date Masamune, who was famous for the crescent moon (mikazuki) adorning his helmet.
This culturally significant name drew attention to a serious scientific finding: the species’ arrival in the temperate Tohoku region is a direct result of marine ecosystem change.
Climate Change Drives Species North
The research, led by a team including Cheryl Lewis Ames, Chanikarn Yongstar, Kei Chloe Tan, and Ayane Totsu, suggests that warming coastal waters and the northward shift of the Kuroshio Current are pushing tropical species into previously untouched temperate zones. The study used DNA analysis and particle simulation modeling (as highlighted by the coverage) to confirm the species is distinct and to track its probable drift path from warmer waters.
This finding serves as a powerful indicator of how climate change is rapidly altering the global distribution of marine organisms, necessitating increased monitoring to ensure coastal safety and ecological understanding.
Access the original article on our site here:
Access the original selected media coverege here:
Physalia mikazuki sp. nov. (Phylum Cnidaria; class Hydrozoa) blown into Japan’s northeast (Tohoku) at the whim of marine ecosystem change
A groundbreaking study co-authored by Cheryl Lewis Ames, Chanikarn Yongstar, Kei Chloe Tan, Ayane Totsu, and colleagues, has led to the identification of a new species of Portuguese Man-of-War (Physalia mikazuki sp. nov.) found in the waters of northeastern Japan (Tohoku).
The research, which also contou com Yoshiki Ochiai, Muhammad Izzat Nugraha, e Waka Sato-Okoshi, attributes the sudden presence of this new species in the temperate region to significant marine ecosystem changes. This discovery is vital for understanding how environmental shifts—such as changes in currents and climate—are forcing the global redistribution of marine organisms.
The findings emphasize the urgent need to monitor these shifts to protect marine biodiversity.
- Authors: Chanikarn Yongstar, Yoshiki Ochiai, Muhammad Izzat Nugraha, Kei Chloe Tan, Ayane Totsu, Waka Sato-Okoshi, Cheryl Lewis Ames
Find the original scientific paper here:
Pathways to an integrated understanding of marine environments and ecosystems in the Asia-Pacific Region
The Asia-Pacific Region (APR) is a global hub of marine biodiversity, essential for global ecological stability and climate regulation. However, its ecosystems from extensive commercial fisheries to vital coral reefs face growing threats due to intense resource extraction and extreme climate events, such as marine heatwaves.
This Perspective article, led by an international collaboration (including Dr. Cheryl Ames), is the result of a seminar and workshop held at Tohoku University (Japan) in 2023. The goal was to address substantial barriers—including the vast diversity of cultures, languages, and management practices—that impede cross-national research efforts in the region.
The article concludes that these efforts are urgent and essential for supporting science-based policies and decisions, capable of confronting the escalating effects of climate change on the Pacific Asian marine systems.
“Without shared, high-quality data, our ability to detect patterns, predict outcomes, and guide effective action remains severely constrained.”
“A productive way forward is to build on regional initiatives that are already redefining how marine science is approached in the Asia-Pacific. This effort aligns with the goals of the World Premier International Research Centre Initiative-Advanced Institute for Marine Ecosystem Change (WPI-AIMEC), recently established at Tohoku University and Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), and a satellite campus at the University of Hawai’i, Manoa. WPI-AIMEC brings together researchers across disciplines to better understand and forecast marine ecosystem responses to environmental change, with a global scope but a particular focus on the Northwest Pacific.”
Find the Full Paper at Frontiers in Marine Science
Find more articles related to WPI-AIMEC
Welcome Aboard, Thomas and Kathleen!
We are absolutely thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our newest undergraduate students joining the IMS Lab for their research journey!
Our lab community is strengthened by the diverse perspectives and talents that students like Thomas and Kathleen bring. We look forward to supporting their work in marine biology and seeing the exciting contributions they will make to our research.
Please join us in giving them a fantastic welcome! You can find their full profiles and Social network links at the Meet The Lab page
The IMS Lab is front page whith Doctor Ames
Tohoku University released its new site design, with a lighter theme and clear lines. The new design is looking really good, but the biggest news for us is that our lab is featured on the front page.
Under the title, “The Romance of Research: Cheryl Ames,” there is an interview with Dr. Ames with text by Taylor Brin that showcases her motivation and ideals put into practice in the collaborative environment that is our lab.
“The Romance of Research: Cheryl Ames” is a really good read, and we are really proud of being portrayed on the new Tohoku University front page.
Bryson Torgovitsky presents “Unboxing R” at ICYMARE 2025 in Bremerhaven, Germany
Bryson Torgovitsky (D2) recently attended the International Conference for Young Marine Sciences (ICYMARE) 2025 meeting, which was hosted in the coastal city of Bremerhaven, Germany. At ICYMARE, Bryson hosted a workshop entitled “Unboxing R” where he provided a crash-course introduction to the R coding language and the RStudio freeware. The goal of this workshop was the construction of a reproducible access-to-analysis data pipeline and practice with coding for students of the marine sciences. This workshop also followed the completion of the first semester of the Unboxing R seminar series which Bryson also designed and hosts here at Tohoku University.
The official website for ICYMARE can be found here
Bryson’s Github, where he has uploaded the code and materials used in the Unboxing R Workshop, can be found here
Bryson Torgovitsky Speaks on Sustainability at TOMODACHI Next Generation Summit 2025 in Tokyo
Bryson Torgovitsky (D2) was recently invited to speak at the TOMODACHI Next Generation Summit 2025 which was held by the TOMODACHI Initiative of the US-Japan Council in Tokyo on August 3rd. The TOMODACHI Initiative is a partnership between the Council and the United States Embassy in Japan which was originally founded as part of the relief efforts after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. Today, TOMODACHI continues to serve as an outreach and education program. Bryson is a two-time alumnus of TOMODACHI high school exchange programs and has remained involved in student and alumni events in the years since. Bryson was a speaker for the Sustainability panel alongside two Japanese alumni where he outlined the importance of collaboration between science, citizens, and industry.
The official press release from TOMODACHI on the Next Generation Summit 2025 is available here: https://usjapantomodachi.org/2025/08/41805/.
Discover the People Powering Our Research!
Behind every breakthrough and exciting discovery at the International Marine Science Lab is a dedicated, international team. We’re excited to introduce our new “Meet the Lab” page, giving you a closer look at the diverse talents, backgrounds, and personalities that make our research community so vibrant.
Learn about their expertise, their roles, and what makes our lab a place of great work and cutting-edge research.
Get to know our incredible team: You can access the page directly via the link below, or through the new “Meet the Lab” icon in our website menu!
Tohoku University’s Pioneering Research in Marine Science
Tohoku University stands at the forefront of tackling some of the most pressing global challenges, particularly those related to our planet’s changing marine ecosystems. The Tohoku University Integrated Report 2024 highlights groundbreaking research and initiatives that aim to understand and mitigate the impacts of environmental shifts on ocean life and beyond.
Unraveling Marine Ecosystems with Environmental DNA
At the heart of marine research is Professor Cheryl Ames, Unit Leader/Principal Investigator at the Advanced Institute for Marine Ecosystem Change (WPI-AIMEC) and Professor at the Graduate School of Agricultural Science. Professor Ames’s research, which notably began with her fascination for jellyfish, has evolved into broader marine organismal studies utilizing environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis.
eDNA, collected from the environment (like seawater), provides a snapshot of all organisms inhabiting an ecosystem at a specific time, even revealing the environmental burden imposed by human activities. Professor Ames has developed a compact, portable eDNA detection kit, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with estimating jellyfish distribution over wide areas. This versatile kit can also be adapted to extract biological data from various other marine organisms.
Collaborations are key to this research. Professor Ames’s unit works with octopus fishers and wholesale auction centers in Minamisanriku, Miyagi, collecting eDNA to aid resource management in Shizugawa Bay and contribute to food sustainability. Further efforts are underway in Okinawa to develop rapid eDNA tests, crucial for regions where jellyfish damage impacts human health and tourism
Addressing Earth’s Changes and Shaping Ocean Life
WPI-AIMEC was established with a strong sense of urgency to decipher the mechanisms behind ocean warming and connect this understanding to projection models. The institute acknowledges the increasing vulnerability of marine ecosystems to rapid changes, suchando as rising global ocean temperatures and fluctuating ocean currents. Incidents like the mass outbreak of venomous Portuguese man-of-war in Miyagi Prefecture underscore the unprecedented phenomena occurring in our oceans.
Understanding the ocean requires an integrated approach, encompassing physics, chemistry, biology, and ecosystems, rather than isolated disciplinary studies. Tohoku University facilitates multidisciplinary research, bringing together diverse specializations to explore connections between sub-disciplines and gain a better understanding of the overall mechanisms of the ocean environment. The ultimate goal is to understand the relationship between the ocean and ecosystems, providing options for actions to build a sustainable society capable of adapting to environmental and ecological changes.
WPI-AIMEC aims to leverage AI to integrate various data types, enhancing our understanding of marine environments and the interactions between marine ecosystems and human society. The establishment of a centralized repository for valuable marine samples and their metadata (including eDNA sequences and images) is also a key initiative to invigorate marine ecology research. Outreach efforts include workshops for researchers and engaging elementary school students in eDNA sample collection to foster ocean conservation.
Tohoku University’s commitment to pioneering research in marine science, exemplified by Professor Ames’s work and the WPI-AIMEC initiative, is vital for a sustainable future.
To read the full document, Tohoku University Integrated Report 2024, click here. To access the original Japanese version, click here.
Beyond the Classroom: Applied Marine Biology in Japan’s Tohoku Region with Professor Ames
Thinking about a career in Marine Biology? Cheryl Ames invites you to explore the Applied Marine Biology (AMB) course at Tohoku University. This video gives you a glimpse into the exciting academic journey and unforgettable cultural experiences that await you in Japan.
The AMB program offers:
- Cutting-edge research in marine sciences
- Hands-on field experience and sampling
- Opportunities to learn advanced techniques (e.g., DNA, genomics)
- Proximity to beautiful and historic Japanese locations
- A supportive and inspiring academic environment
Don’t miss this chance to join a world-class program and kickstart your career in applied marine biology!
Visit the AMB website for details or the Tohoku Universiti Courses page
Nice, France Meeting Highlights Future of Marine Discovery, Co-led by Dr. Ames
Earlier this month, Dr. Cheryl Ames participated in a highly productive and collaborative meeting in Nice, France, from June 6-8, 2025. This important gathering provided a crucial platform for engaging with international colleagues and advancing the strategic planning for the groundbreaking Ocean Shot Research Grant.
As a Unit Leader at WPI-AIMEC and a co-leader of the selected Ocean Shot project, Dr. Ames was a key figure in the discussions. The project, officially titled “Discovery in the largest frontier: advanced imaging and genomics of open ocean animals,” recently secured $2.75 million USD for a three-year research period, set to begin in 2025. This significant funding was awarded by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation’s Ocean Policy Research Institute under its Ocean Shot Research Grant program.
“This is an exciting opportunity to bring marine science researchers together from around the globe to explore the ocean using innovative genomics and imaging approaches. I look forward to seeing all the new species we will discover!”
— Dr. Cheryl AmesFor comprehensive details on the Ocean Shot Research Grant, its team, and scientific objectives, please visit the original announcement on the WPI-AIMEC news page: https://wpi-aimec.jp/en/news/2207/]
Nice, France june 2025 
Prof. Cheryl Ames’s international research project has been selected for “OceanShot” research grant program
In February 2025, the proposal entitled “Discoveries at the Greatest Frontiers:
Advanced Imaging and Genomics of Pelagic Animals,” submitted by WPI-AIMEC Unit
Leader Prof. Cheryl Ames (Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University)
with Ocean Shot team leader Jan Hemmi University of Western Australia, together with
Karen Osborn of the University of Western Australia and Smithsonian National
Museum of Natural History, and Kakani Katija of Monterey Bay Aquarium Research
Institute, was selected for the Ocean Shot research grant program by the Sasakawa
Peace Foundation’s Ocean Policy Research Institute.
Ocean Shot was established to provide large-scale support for the discovery of marine
species and the development of new technologies that drive these discoveries.
Through this selection, the team will receive 2.75 million USD for their proposed 3-year
research project starting in 2025.
This research project focuses on the midwater zone, located between the ocean
surface and the deep sea. Despite being estimated to harbor over 90% of Earth’s
biodiversity, this light-limited region is one of the least explored ecosystems due to its
inaccessibility. By employing imaging, genomics, eDNA, and AI technologies in
dedicated research cruises, the project aims to develop a comprehensive database of
marine organisms. Through collecting, curating, compiling and disseminating multiple
data types, the project aspires to bring to light the scale of midwater biodiversity,
evolutionary processes, and environmental changes on a global scale.
Tohoku Univ. first candidate for huge Japan gov’t research grants
The national university in the northeastern Japan prefecture of Miyagi is set to be formally selected as early as fiscal 2024 as a recipient of annual financial support for up to 25 years from fiscal 2024, starting with around 10 billion yen ($69 million) in the initial year.
Under the new Universities for International Research Excellence program, the grants will be paid out of profits generated from a 10 trillion yen fund.
Tohoku University has been rated highly for its large number of research paper citations, and measures to strengthen its research capabilities and reform its management, the ministry said.
Creating Sustainable Coastal Ecosystems and Fisheries in Northeast Japan
Our team at Tohoku University, led by Associate Professor Alyne Delaney, just launched SEAQUEST – a vital research project tackling the complex challenges facing fisheries in Japan’s Tohoku region since the 2011 earthquake.
We’re blending cutting-edge science, like eDNA and AI for species distribution modeling, with traditional socio-ecological concepts like satoumi and umigyo. This holistic approach helps us understand why some fisheries have declined while others increased, especially with changing ocean conditions and parasitic outbreaks.
SEAQUEST emphasizes community-based citizen science, collecting crucial data from simple water samples. We’re working closely with diverse local and international stakeholders, including fishing communities (even women fishers!), tourism, and industry partners.
Our goal? To combine local ecological knowledge with scientific methods to foster true social and environmental sustainability. Co-Principal Investigators Professor Cheryl Ames and Associate Professor Toyonobu Fujii are key to this interdisciplinary effort.
Preserving biodiversity: A Nobel Prize Dialogue Tokyo 2022 panel discussion – Water Matters
Dr. Cheryl Ames moderates a panel entitled “Preserving Biodiversity during the Nobel Prize’s Tokyo 2022 Dialogue – Water Matters.” Panelists include: im Hunt, Nobel Prize laureate in medicine 2001, Sakaguchi Hide, Executive Director The Saskawa Peace Foundation and President The Ocean Policy Research Institute, and Dan Shechtman, Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry 2011 discuss preserving biodiversity.
National Science Foundation Funds Tohoku University-led Seafood Traceability Network
With octopus, squid, and cuttlefish catches soaring but misidentification and inaccurate reporting raising overfishing fears, our international, multidisciplinary team is stepping in. Led by Tohoku University’s own Cheryl Ames (Co-Principal Investigator and Smithsonian Research Collaborator) and Demian Willette from Loyola Marymount University, our 15-member team spans 7 countries and diverse fields, including fisheries management, marine biology, and AI. Associate Professor Alyne Delaney (Tohoku University) is also on board!
Funded by the National Science Foundation, we’re building an application to track and identify octopus from ocean to table. This project uniquely combines traditional methods with cutting-edge tech: genomics, molecular metabarcoding, eDNA, and AI. Fishers in Mexico, California, and Alaska will be key citizen scientists, using eDNA kits to help us map octopus distribution and seasonality.
“Reliable knowledge will point us to where edible octopuses are found, and policymakers can use this information to make octopus fishing sustainable,” says Ames. We’re confident this network will pave the way for ecosystem-based fisheries and contribute to a thriving blue economy.
Live Jellyfish Make a Splash in Marine Education
The Smithsonian Magazine that takes you behind the scenes at the National Museum of Natural History! The piece shines a spotlight on the museum’s unique “AquaRoom” a dedicated facility where live jellyfish and other marine invertebrates are raised and studied.
The AquaRoom, co-founded by marine biologists Allen Collins and Dr. Cheryl Ames, had humble beginnings but a grand vision. As Allen Collins recounts,
“So, Cheryl and I started collecting freebie aquarium stuff that people were getting rid of in the department, including a 55-gallon tank.”
From these dedicated efforts, the facility grew to cultivate various jellyfish species and became instrumental in educational outreach, offering tours, bringing live jellyfish to the museum floor, and continuing its mission through virtual webinars and collaborations, even sending jellyfish polyps for student experiments.
Who’s in this Ocean? Tracking Down Species on the Go Using Environmental DNA
The article details the development of a novel method for tracking marine species: the portable eDNA sequencing kit (FeDS), spearheaded by Dr. Cheryl Lewis Ames’s team from Tohoku University. The article explains how the FeDS kit makes the complex process of environmental DNA identification — from water sample collection to species identification — entirely portable and capable of being conducted on-site without an internet connection, thanks to the Nanopore MinION device.
The effectiveness of the FeDS kit was successfully tested in the Florida Keys, where the team not only detected the upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea) but also identified a remarkable 53 jellyfish species, including two venomous box jellyfish species previously unreported in the area. Dr. Ames envisions incredible practical applications for this technology, such as predicting jellyfish sting risks, much like a ‘weather forecast app’ for swimmers!
This innovative research was published in the esteemed Frontiers in Marine Science journal, underscoring its solid impact and global relevance.
And to access the original scientific paper that underpins this research, click here:
Tracking Down Ocean Species On the Go Using eDNA
The article highlights the pioneering work of our own Dr. Cheryl Ames and her team in the Florida Keys. They led a crucial study demonstrating the potential of a portable Nanopore sequencer to detect the presence of upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea xamachana) and other jellyfish species directly in the field! This represents an incredible leap forward, overcoming the challenges of bringing complex DNA analysis from labs into the marine environment.
This technology not only identified Cassiopea jellyfish but also revealed the presence of other species unseen at the time of sampling, such as moon jellyfish and venomous box jellyfish. The potential is vast: from predicting jellyfish sting risks to aiding fisheries management, supporting conservation efforts, and even integrating into autonomous underwater vehicles for comprehensive marine surveys.
This groundbreaking research stems from a foundational scientific paper published in Frontiers in Marine Science, underscoring its impact.
Read the full article on Smithsonian Ocean and dive into the future of species detection:
And for the original scientific paper that underpins this amazing work, access it here:
SciShow Explains How Jellyfish Sting Without Touching You!
I Don’t Think You’re Ready for this Jelly!
SciShow’s Olivia Gordon discusses our recent discovery about Upside-Down Jellyfish and how they sting. This jellyfish might look kind of unassuming, but it’s got some surprising long-range weaponry to catch its prey!
Upside-down jellyfish release venom-filled ‘bombs’ in their snot
In a fascinating report by Nicoletta Lanese for Live Science, learn why the water surrounding upside-down jellyfish often stings to the touch. Scientists finally have the answer! Read the full story here
Jellyfish Can Sting You Without Even a Single Touch
Scientists have found that a species of the jellyfish throw venom grenades to create stinging water to snare their preys. The Cassiopea xamachana jellyfish, found in shallow waters around Florida, the Caribbean and Micronesia, is a frequent nuisance to snorkelers and surfers who appear to get stung without touching the creatures. It was thought that the stings came from detached tentacles or younger specimens. But a team from the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory realized that Cassiopea had in fact evolved a novel way of hunting without tentacles.
These jellyfish can sting without touching you, thanks to ‘mucus grenades’
Imagine encountering a creature that defends itself with unseen projectiles! National Geographic invites you on a journey into the remarkable world of upside-down jellyfish, showcasing Dr. Cheryl Ames’s extraordinary research into their unique defense strategy.
This captivating feature explores how these intriguing invertebrates, Cassiopea spp., can release ‘mucus grenades’ – microscopic, venom-filled structures that pack a potent sting without direct contact. Dr. Cheryl Ames, a marine biologist and associate professor at Tohoku University, provides a fascinating glimpse into the observation of these creatures’ efficiency:
“Then, within 24 hours, the pink cloud will be gone.” (referring to the cloud of zapped brine shrimp after feeding). This observation speaks volumes about the efficacy of their hidden defense system.
National Geographic beautifully illustrates how Dr. Ames’s profound contributions are reshaping our understanding of marine ecosystems and the intricate adaptations within them. It’s truly inspiring to see this deep dive into nature’s secrets featured by such a world-renowned publication, bringing the wonders of the ocean floor to life for millions worldwide.
Upside-down jellyfish release venom-filled ‘bombs’ in their snot
Mucus produced by these upside-down jellyfish can be seen floating above their frilly arms. (Image credit: Allen Collins and Cheryl Ames) For years, swimmers have felt a perplexing tingling in waters inhabited by upside-down jellyfish, even without direct contact. Now, Live Science delivers the definitive scientific explanation, thanks to the pivotal research co-led by Dr. Cheryl Ames!
The long-standing question of what causes this ‘stinging water sensation’ has finally been addressed. As Dr. Cheryl Ames, an associate professor of applied marine biology at Tohoku University, explains the initial scientific challenge:
“We knew it had to be something in the mucus.”
Her team’s methodical investigation led to the identification of ‘cassiosomes’ – microscopic, venom-filled structures released by the jellyfish – providing the clear answer.
This compelling Live Science article details the journey of scientific inquiry, highlighting the rigorous process that unveiled nature’s hidden mechanisms. We’re proud to see Dr. Ames’s dedication to solving marine mysteries recognized by Live Science, bringing clarity and understanding to a broader audience.
Upside-down Jellyfish Create ‘Stinging Water’ That Kills Prey by Launching Mucus ‘Grenades’
[This study] began when I and other marine biologists were concerned about the source of ‘stinging water’—an irritating sensation that occurred while in the mangrove forest waters studying upside-down jellyfish, and working together with aquarists at major public aquariums,” Cheryl Ames, an author of the study from Tohoku University, Japan, and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, told Newsweek.
“There were several theories exchanged by fellow marine biologists, and comments posted online by people after experiencing stinging water during snorkeling or swimming in those areas. We wanted to find out the scientific explanation behind the long-standing stinging water puzzle,” she said.
Upside-Down Jellyfish Release Weaponized Goo Packed With Toxic ‘Grenades’
Cassisomes as seen through a microscope. The oval structures are laced with toxic capsules known as nematocysts, and the brown blobs are symbiotic algae that live within the tissues of Cassiopea. Image: (Cheryl Ames and Anna Klompen) Forget what you thought you knew about jellyfish! A recent mind-bending article on Gizmodo blasts open the bizarre secret of Cassiopea spp. – the upside-down jellyfish that can sting you without even a touch!
The mystery behind that infamous ‘stinging water’ has been cracked wide open, thanks to groundbreaking research co-led by Dr. Cheryl Ames. Her team discovered microscopic, venom-packed ‘cassiosomes’ that navigate on their own. As Dr. Ames vividly describes these tiny attackers:
“They were autonomous, moving around like little Roomba vacuums and bumping into the brine shrimp that we fed them, just killing them on contact, and moving on to the next.”
It’s truly wild to see Dr. Ames’s pioneering work not just uncovering new biological mechanisms but making such an incredible splash on Gizmodo, bringing truly cutting-edge, weird science to everyone!
2019 London Calling – Field-Forward Sequencing with Oxford Nanopore Technology
Jellyfish expert Dr. Cheryl Ames presents at Oxford Naopre’s London Calling Aquatic Ecosystems plenary session. Dr. Ames discusses the work of her team at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory using eDNA to categorize jellyfish diversity for environmental monitoring, sting prevention (affecting both combat divers in the Navy and recreational divers), to investigate biodiversity in the gulfstream, and also aid public aquariums.
Jellyfish Expert: Biodiversity & Genomics
