Ishizuka, S., Shibata, S., Inoue, E., Kawamoto, Y. & Watanabe, K. (2024). Comparative phylogeography of Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) and sika deer (Cervus nippon) on Shodoshima Island inferred by mitochondrial DNA analysis. Mammal Study 49 (2): 107–115.

　This study focused on Shodoshima Island, located at the east-west genetic boundary for many mammals on Honshu, and presented a molecular phylogenetic analysis of Japanese macaques and sika deer inhabiting the island. The authors revealed that despite both species originating from Honshu, their genetic diversity differs significantly. The clarification of the distinct colonization histories of the two species on the island and the presence of past bottlenecks in sika deer are highly commendable. Furthermore, in the Japanese archipelago, which is composed of numerous islands, this research elucidates the formation process of insular mammalian faunas and is expected to contribute significantly to the future development of mammalian research in Japan.