How Many New Species Are Discovered Each Year?

Each year, scientists identify about 15,000 new species of animals, plants, fungi or microorganisms. It is estimated that about 86% of existing species on Earth have yet to be discovered or identified. That percentage might be even higher for ocean species in particular, because scientists have more difficulty exploring water. Scientists often concentrate their species research on biodiversity hot spots, which are areas that are rich in biological species but are at risk of losing habitat areas because of human actions. These include regions in the Congo, the Himalayas, California, India, Australia and the Caribbean.

More about new species:

• In 1833, British entomologist John Obadiah Westwood estimated there were 400,000 species of insects. Although more than 1 million insect species have been identified, Westwood’s estimate is significant because it is thought to be the first known estimate of biodiversity.


• Scientists have been discovering new species at about the same pace since 1758. At this rate, it would take at least 500 more years to discover all of the species that are estimated to exist in the world.


• As many as 10,000 species of undiscovered bacteria are thought to be present in one scoop of soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many new species are discovered each year?

On average, scientists discover approximately 18,000 new species each year, according to the State of Observed Species report. These discoveries span various categories of life, including plants, insects, fish, mammals, and microorganisms, highlighting the rich biodiversity still hidden within our planet's ecosystems.

What regions of the world yield the most new species discoveries?

Tropical regions, particularly rainforests like the Amazon, are hotspots for new species discoveries due to their high biodiversity and relatively unexplored habitats. Islands and oceanic depths are also prolific areas, as their isolation and unique environments foster the evolution of distinct species.

Why do we continue to find new species each year?

We continue to find new species because vast areas of the Earth remain underexplored, especially marine environments and dense tropical forests. Additionally, advancements in technology and scientific methods, such as DNA analysis, enhance our ability to identify species that were previously unknown or mistaken for similar organisms.

What impact does the discovery of new species have on science?

The discovery of new species has profound implications for science, enriching our understanding of biodiversity, evolution, and ecological relationships. It can lead to the development of new medicines, agricultural advances, and conservation strategies, ensuring we preserve the intricate web of life that sustains our planet's health and resources.

How does climate change affect the discovery of new species?

Climate change poses a significant threat to biodiversity, potentially leading to the extinction of species before they are discovered. However, it also forces species to migrate and adapt, which can sometimes lead to the discovery of new species in unexpected places as scientists monitor these changes.

Are all new species discovered in the wild?

While most new species are discovered in natural habitats, some are found in less expected places, such as urban areas, or even within museum collections where misidentified or overlooked specimens reside. New species can also emerge in laboratories, particularly microorganisms that are observed under specific conditions.