1. Understanding the structure of microbial communities and exploring for unknown microorganisms.

Sampling highly anaerobic subsurface microorganisms in Northern Hokkaido to investigate the microbial community structure and search for unknown microorganisms.

2. Clarification of biological and engineering functions of microorganisms.

Create a repository of subsurface microorganisms in Northern Hokkaido and elucidate their biological and engineering functions, particularly, the rate of initial methane production, organic matter decomposition, carbon dioxide fixation. The scope shall be expanded with the progress of research.

3. Acquisition of useful microorganisms (group) and gene analysis.

Acquire microorganisms (groups) with useful engineering functions present in the subsurface of Northern Hokkaido and analyze their genes. The microorganisms will be sub-cultured to find the optimal culture conditions, so they can be used as a gene resource.

4. Study on the field science to understand the subsurface environment of diatom formations and coal layers.

Estimate and evaluate the subsurface microbial ecosystem by constructing a phylogenetic database of microorganisms living in diatom formations and coal layers.