Preservation of ecosystems has emerged as one of the most important issues as global warming progresses. Glaciers and snowfields are shrinking rapidly, particularly in mountainous regions. Consequently, endemic organisms that have adapted to harsh environmental conditions such as low temperature, drought, and strong ultraviolet rays are at risk of extinction. Professor Tojo and his team analyzed the past evolutionary process of A. sachalinensis at a genetic level, an aquatic insect present in cool ponds and springs that can survive in cold environments. Furthermore, they also investigated the effects of past climate changes on the range shift of A. sachalinensis, the connectivity and fragmentation of local populations, and the resulting genetic structure.

Genetic analysis revealed that “during the repeated glacial and interglacial periods, Group I existed at relatively low altitudes, allowing it to move easily and distribute widely, whereas Group II existed at high altitudes, resulting in a scattered distribution in isolated environments.” Furthermore, high-altitude organisms were more likely to acquire unique lifestyles (subject to natural selection) in the harsh and isolated environments unique to high altitudes. Subsequent research has also shown that although populations of both groups are present on Mt. Norikura, differences have been noted between alpine and sub-alpine zones of Mt. Norikura in terms of reproductive timing. An accumulation of genetic mutations has resulted in them coming to form “separate species.” Thus, it has demonstrated how climate change can lead to the birth of new species and that high altitudes, in particular, support species diversification.