Which endemic seabird, belonging to the auk family, breeds primarily on the coasts of Japan?
Answer
Japanese Murrelet (Synthliboramphus wintonii)
The Japanese Murrelet is the striking example provided of avian endemism extending to seabirds. This species belongs to the auk family and spends the majority of its life in the marine environment. They only return to land specifically for the purpose of breeding, and their primary breeding locations are situated along the coasts of Japan. Studying their nesting colonies offers vital insight into the health and stability of the local marine ecosystem, as their reproductive success is inextricably linked to the availability and abundance of local fish populations.
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