Research in Science Advances shows that scientists are now describing new species faster than previously thought. The team analysed taxonomic histories for roughly two million species across all groups of life and found an average of more than 16,000 new species per year in the most recent full period, 2015–2020. Animals, especially arthropods and insects, made up the largest share, with plants and fungi also contributing substantial numbers.
The lead author, John Wiens, said the data contradicts claims that species discovery has slowed. The researchers compared discovery and extinction trends and reported a discovery rate far higher than an extinction rate they estimated at about ten species per year. Based on current trends, they projected up to 115,000 fish species and 41,000 amphibian species, while only about 42,000 fish and 9,000 amphibians are described today; they also suggested the final plant total could exceed half a million. Overall, roughly 2.5 million species are known now, but the true total may be much larger.
Most new species are still recognised by visible traits, yet the team expects molecular tools to reveal many cryptic species, particularly among bacteria and fungi. Discovering and describing species matters for protection: “Discovering new species is important because these species can’t be protected until they’re scientifically described.”
New species also provide natural products and technological inspiration. Examples include:
- GLP-1 receptor agonists inspired by a hormone in Gila monsters,
- venoms and plant or fungal compounds with possible medical uses,
- gecko-like adhesives for materials science.
The researchers plan to map discovery locations to find geographic hotspots and to study who is making these discoveries; they note that 15% of all known species have been discovered in the past twenty years.
Difficult words
- taxonomic — relating to classification of organisms
- arthropod — invertebrate animals with jointed legs and exoskeletonarthropods
- extinction — end of a species' existence in nature
- cryptic species — species that look similar but are genetically distinct
- molecular — related to molecules or DNA and genetic tests
- agonist — a substance that activates a receptor in the bodyagonists
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could mapping discovery locations help conservation efforts and research priorities?
- What effects might finding many cryptic species with molecular tools have on medicine and biodiversity protection?
- Why do you think 15% of all known species were discovered in the past twenty years, and how could discovery rates change in the future?
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