How Are New Species Discovered?

Taxonomy — the exploration and classification of species — has been around as a scientific discipline since the 1700s. The discovery of new species is generally performed by taxonomists who go on fieldwork missions to seek out new species in various geographical regions and climates. A physical specimen typically is collected and compared against existing species in a catalog. The discoveries also often happen by accident or via tips from individuals, particularly since the technology for high-definition photography has been available. For example, in 2012, an insect named Semachrysa jade was discovered after a hiker posted a picture from Malaysia on the website Flickr and an entomologist suspected that it was a new species. It was the first known species discovered as a result of social media.

More about new species :

• The International Institute for Species Exploration estimated that, as of 2012, only 2 million of a possible 12 million living species had been discovered.


• About 50% of all newly discovered species are insects.


• Before embarking on fieldwork missions, taxonomists often use the website Google Earth to scout locations that are the most likely to result in the discovery of new species.

Frequently Asked Questions

What methods are used to discover new species?

Scientists employ various methods to discover new species, including field expeditions in unexplored or under-studied habitats, examination of museum collections for overlooked specimens, and the use of advanced technologies like DNA sequencing to identify genetic differences that signify distinct species. Remote sensing and camera traps also aid in detecting elusive creatures.

How often are new species discovered?

New species are discovered regularly, with estimates suggesting tens of thousands are identified each year. According to the State of the World's Plants and Fungi report by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in 2020 alone, more than 1,900 new plant and fungal species were described. This highlights the vast biodiversity still unknown to science.

Why is it important to discover new species?

Discovering new species is crucial for understanding Earth's biodiversity, which is vital for ecosystem health and stability. It informs conservation efforts by identifying species that may be endangered and provides insights into evolutionary processes. Additionally, new species can lead to discoveries in medicine, agriculture, and other fields, as they may possess unique genes or compounds.

Can new species be discovered in urban areas?

Yes, new species can be discovered in urban areas. Urban environments, often overlooked as biodiversity hotspots, can harbor unique species that have adapted to city life. For instance, researchers have found new insect species in New York City's parks and even new bacteria in subway systems, proving that urban areas can yield surprising discoveries.

What challenges do scientists face when discovering new species?

Scientists face numerous challenges in discovering new species, including accessing remote or harsh environments, securing funding for expeditions and research, and the painstaking work of differentiating new species from known ones. Habitat destruction and climate change also pose threats by potentially driving species to extinction before they are even discovered.

How does climate change affect the discovery of new species?

Climate change significantly impacts the discovery of new species by altering habitats and threatening biodiversity. As species migrate to adapt to changing conditions, some may become extinct before being documented. Conversely, melting ice and shifting ecosystems can expose previously inaccessible areas, potentially revealing new species, as seen in retreating glacier regions.