Japan city, MUFG Bank to launch satellite-based study of local dolphins

KUMAMOTO, Japan - A Japanese mega bank said Thursday it will work with the southwestern city of Amakusa to launch a study of the local population of some 200 dolphins living in waters off its coast via satellite.

Dolphin watching has been a key tourism resource supporting the local economy of Amakusa in Kumamoto Prefecture, with the study involving MUFG Bank aiming to understand the relationship between the marine environment and dolphin sightings and use the findings to promote eco-friendly tourist boat operations and environmental conservation.