Symbiosis of Biodiversity and Tea Production Through Chagusaba

Chagusaba,which is traditional tea-grass integrated system in Shizuoka,is one of Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems（GIAHS） sites in Japan.Chagusaba provide an important habitat for natural plant species.In this study,we investigated the flora in Chagusaba and environmental factors to affect the number of native species estimated their diversity.Fifty Chagusaba were classified in to five vegetation types by Two-way indicator species analysis.In addition,high number of native plant species Chagusaba had low soil p H,covered large areas,and were in places where the land had not been modified.Through statistical analysis（GLM）,we found that land modification had an especially significant effect on the diversity of native plants,and that the diversity of native plants was reflected in the history of the use of the land.

Traditional Tea-grass Integrated System in Shizuoka as a GIAHS Site: Values and Conservation——Background of Application and Efforts after Registration

The traditional tea-grass integrated system in Shizuoka is the first example of a Globally Important Agriculture Heritage Systems(GIAHS)site in Japan that was proposed by a local government.In this paper,we report the background and circumstances leading to the recognition of this system,its registration as a GIAHS,and its current use after registration.Although semi-natural grasslands have decreased considerably in Japan,we found unique semi-natural grasslands with no pest insects and a rich biodiversity around the tea fields.These grasslands and the farming method employed are known as'Chagusaba',which was registered as a GIAHS in 2013.However,the registration process for GIAHS was not easy,as many local farmers do not understand the value of their traditional farming methods or the GIAHS honor.After registering Chagusaba as a GIAHS,our main agenda was branding.Traditional farming,with time and effort,produces high-quality tea.As labor saving technologies in agriculture have progressed in Japan,the price of high-quality tea has declined,and consequently,the numbers of farmers performing the inefficient traditional farming methods are decreasing.It is necessary to correctly brand the Chagusaba-grown tea and reflect the value of the traditional farming method in the price.The local government of the Shizuoka Prefecture is currently working on implementing a certification system,which includes scientific evaluation using GPS,and the introduction of biodiversity indicators.