JP073Banzu and Futtsu tidal flat

Site Description

Wetlands

Banzu tidal flat：It consists of an estuary delta(43 ha) which lies on the northwestern side of the tide embankment on the right bank of the Obitsugawa river, and the Maehama tidal flat (1,400 ha) which lies ahead. The delta is salty marsh which vegetates mainly Phragmites australis, and through which a waterway influenced by both salty and fresh water runs. A part of the delta has Pleioblastus chino Makino community, Celtis sinensis japonica grove, a planted Pinus thunbergii grove and an artificial pond. Maehama is one of the largest natural sandy tidal flat in Japan, where the tide ebbs as far as 1.5 to 2 km offshore during spring tide. It has the tidal range of 2m and the gradient of approximately 1/1000.

Futtsu tidal flat：It is a sandy tidal flat located on the northeastern side of the Futtsumisaki cape. It has an algal field of Zostera marina L., and its eastern area is used for shellfish gathering. There is a promenade in the Pinus thunbergii forest. Its beach is well used for leisure activities.

Area & Coordinates

2,400ha 35°24′N 139°54′E
region: Kanto

Category

A4i

Designation Type

Wildlife Protection Area (Local)

Protection Status

Unprotected

Conservation issues

• Recreation/tourism
• Consequences of animal/plants/ introductions
• Natural events
• Other