Designated as National Natural Treasure on January 29, 2001
The Shishigahana Wetland, supplied with water by the abundance of natural springs in the vicinity, is constant in its acidity level and low temperature (pH 4.4-4.6 and 7.0-8.0 ⁰C). A rich variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic flora has developed here in the absence of human intervention.
Particularly important is the colonies of bryophyte (mosses and moss-like plants) in the water and on the shores, which includes three rare species of hepatics and two rare species of highland-type of bryopsida (mosses in the strict sense). No other region in Japan nourishes such a quantity and variety of bryophyte as does Shishigahana Wetland.
Jungermannia handelii (Handerusoroigoke): a species of hepatics that exist only on the Mediterranean shores, Mt. Yatsugatake, and the wetlands here in Japan.
Nardia compressa (Hiraurokogoke): a species of hepatics that exist in high latitude areas, such as Greenland, the Aleutian Archipelago, and on Mt. Chōkai.
Moerckia japonica (Yamatoyahazugoke): a species of hepatics that exist only in Japan in Tateyama and Shishigahana Wetland.
Cautions:
1) Please stay on the walking paths.
2) It is prohibited by law to enter the designated areas (except the walking paths) and collect any plants in the areas.
3) Water sources are particularly dangerous due to their depth and rapid flow. Never get close to them.
4) Respect nature. Do not leave any cans, bottles or other garbage in the protected area.
Legend:
Green Designated Areas
Black Walking Paths
Blue Water Courses
Agency for Cultural Affairs, Akita Prefectural Board of Education, City of Nikaho and the Yuri District Forest Office.