What does this research mean for the field?

Professor Akira Komiyama made pioneering and foundational contributions to the study of mangrove ecosystems in Thailand, particularly in illuminating the previously unknown below-ground root biomass of giant Rhizophora trees. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.SYNTHESIS. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

To honor Professor Komiyama's pioneering work in mangrove ecology and his specific studies on root biomass in Thailand.

June 3, 2026Tropics0 citationsOpen Access

Memorial article for Professor Emeritus Dr. Akira KOMIYAMA (Gifu University): With special reference to his mangrove studies in Thailand

SPSasitorn PoungparnChulalongkorn University

Key Points

To honor Professor Komiyama's pioneering work in mangrove ecology and his specific studies on root biomass in Thailand.
Initiated mangrove research in 1982 at Hatsaikhao forest plot in Ranong Province.
Studied root biomass distribution of giant Rhizophora trees.
Collaborative expeditions with young Thai researchers.
Pioneered the understanding of below-ground biomass in tropical mangrove ecosystems.
Inspired a generation of Thai researchers to appreciate mangrove biodiversity.
Documented unique ecological features of untouched mangrove forests.

Abstract

Professor Komiyama, the Legend of Mangrove Research in Thailand, began his mangrove research in Thailand in 1982 at the pristine Hatsaikhao forest plot in Ranong Province.It was there that his lifelong fascination with the "fill of roots forest" began.At that time, when below-ground biomass remained a "black box" in tropical ecology, he pioneered a study of root biomass distribution of giant Rhizophora trees at the Hatsaikhao plot.It was one of his vivid memories, which he frequently shared with young Thai researchers who had never had the privilege of seeing such untouched and fantastic mangrove ecosystems.I first encountered Professor Komiyama in 1998 at Phang Nga Province, while accompanying my supervisor, Dr. Pipat Pataponpaiboon of Chulalongkorn University, for a collaborative expedition in a mangrove forest.I

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