A total of 866 previously unknown marine species have been discovered as part of the Ocean Census initiative, which aims to document marine life. This significant update was released on March 11, 2025, following 10 ocean expeditions conducted by a global alliance of scientists.
- 866 new marine species discovered
- Ocean Census aims to document marine life
- Many species found at extreme depths
- New technology aids in species identification
- Discovery process can take several years
- Climate change impacts marine biodiversity
The Ocean Census is a 10-year project focused on exploring and documenting marine biodiversity. It involves over 800 scientists from 400 institutions who have conducted numerous expeditions to the ocean depths. The newly discovered species range from a guitar-shaped shark to a fan-like coral and a venomous deep-sea snail with harpoon-like teeth.
These discoveries were made at various depths, from 3 feet to nearly 3.1 miles underwater. Michelle Taylor, a coral expert at the University of Essex, emphasized that only about 10% of marine species are currently known. The project aims to address the significant gaps in understanding marine ecosystems.
New technology, such as genetic sequencing and real-time imaging, has expedited the identification of these species. However, scientists still rely on physical specimens for formal classification, which can be time-consuming. The Ocean Census aims to accelerate this process to better understand marine biodiversity and the impacts of climate change on ocean life.
The Ocean Census represents a vital step in marine exploration, aiming to document a wide variety of species and enhance our understanding of ocean ecosystems. As researchers continue their work, more discoveries are expected, contributing to the broader knowledge of marine life.
