Biological data collection of Mary (Asian elephant at Ikeda Zoo, Okayama) and public contribution in the form of a reconstructed whole body skeleton cast model

This project aims to prepare a reconstructed cast model of the large animal whole body skeleton, and using its characteristics to link to research of a higher quality and activities for spread of educational information in the public. At the same time, we could achieve social contribution via realization of the citizens’ and visitors’ wish not to forget Mary in whatever way. A real specimen of a bulky animal such as an elephant is an ideal object for students, pupils, and children to learn biological mechanism of the animal body, biodiversity, and historical change of environment on earth with a feeling of reality. The data collection and materialization of Mary, aimed in this study, would provide an opportunity for promotion of research and education of such large animals as well as for enhancement of regional cooperation through a cast taken from the real specimen of an enormous animal. Also, the reconstructed full-scale skeleton cast model displayed in the campus would stimulate the students’ intellectual curiosity, resulting in the improvement of research and provision of educational opportunities.