Conserving biodiversity in cities

Promoting the conservation of biodiversity in urban areas by encouraging retention of habitat and wherever possible focusing future development on existing built-up areas.

In Honmoku Citizens Public Park in Yokahama, Japan, a simple drainway and elongated concrete detention pond for handling surface water was converted to a functioning ecosystem, a "dragonfly pond." Japan has unusual diversity in its dragonfly fauna, and these species have special significance for its culture and traditions. Restoration of dragonfly breeding habitat was selected as a theme for regenerating the water detention pond for the following reasons: There are several legally protected, uncommon species (such as Luciola cruciata) that are now rarely seen, and that might be propagated in a managed habitat. The dragonfly traditionally is viewed as symbolizing the spiritual climate of Japan and therefor represents an intergenerational topic of conversation and admiration. And finally, the habitat of the dragonfly is the emergent and submerged plant life and sediment of a diverse biological system that is potentially compatible with the city.