Ocean Census and Essex researchers discover more than 800 species

University of Essex scientists have helped the world’s largest collaborative effort to accelerate the discovery of marine life discover 866 new marine species.

The work with the Nippon Foundation-Nekton Ocean Census is a significant step in advancing our understanding of ocean biodiversity, with discoveries expected to grow as the programme continues.

Essex scientists, from the School of Life Sciences, have taken part in several expeditions including Dr Jessica Gordon and Dr Michelle Taylor.

The identification and official registration of a new species can take up to 13.5 years—meaning some species may go extinct before they are even documented.

To address this, The Nippon Foundation and Nekton jointly launched the Ocean Census in April 2023 to transform species discovery, accelerating the identification of marine life to close critical knowledge gaps before it’s too late.

Executive Director Mitsuyuki Unno, of The Nippon Foundation representing the founding partner of the Ocean Census, said: “The ocean covers 71% of our planet, yet it is said that only around 10% of marine life has been discovered so far, leaving an estimated 1–2 million species still undocumented.

“These latest findings demonstrate how international collaboration can advance our understanding of ocean biodiversity.”

The Ocean Census global alliance has conducted 10 global expeditions and hosted 8 Species Discovery Workshops, awarding 19 Species Discovery Awards to taxonomists worldwide.

New species of shark, sea butterfly, mud dragon, bamboo coral, water bear, octocoral, sponge, shrimp, crab, reef fish, squat lobster, pipehorse, limpet, hooded shrimp, sea spiders and brittle stars—encompassing dozens of taxonomic groups—have been registered to the Ocean Census Biodiversity Data Platform (formerly referred to as the Cyberbiodiversity System). 

See some of the species below

The beta version, developed in partnership with the UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre, is now accessible to researchers and the public alike.

Using divers, submersibles, and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), new species have been identified from depths of 1 to 4,990 meters, with analysis conducted by collaborating scientists from the Ocean Census Science Network.

Scientists frequently encounter species that are new to science, but a species is only officially recognised once it has been formally described and published in a scientific journal. This process can take years, meaning many remain undocumented before they can be studied.

Professor Lucy Woodall, Head of Science at Ocean Census, said: “Too many species remain in limbo for years because the process of formally describing them is too slow.

"We urgently need to change that and adding the Species Discovery step gives us a way to rapidly start the process.

"Every new species—whether a shark or a sponge—deepens our understanding of marine ecosystems and the benefits they provide for the planet.”

When the Ocean Census first launched, the project envisioned a Biodiversity Centres framework.

The strategy has since evolved into a decentralised network of scientists participating from over 400 institutions worldwide—a more agile framework that unites diverse skills and resources globally.

Endorsed under the United Nations Ocean Decade, the Ocean Census has formed strategic partnerships with national marine research institutes, museums, universities, philanthropic organisations, and technology partners.

These alliances amplify research efforts in uncharted ocean regions, filling critical gaps in our understanding of marine life.

 Jyotika Virmani, Executive Director of Schmidt Ocean Institute, said: “Schmidt Ocean Institute is proud to be a partner of the Ocean Census, whose strength lies in its vast network.

"By uniting governments, philanthropic supporters, and leading marine research organisations, we can accelerate the discovery of ocean life at an unprecedented scale”

Building on the initial findings, the Ocean Census will provide dozens more Species Discovery Awards, undertake 10 new expeditions, and host 7 additional Species Discovery Workshops in 2025 across the Pacific, Indian, and Southern Oceans. All further data will be added to the Ocean Census Biodiversity Data Platform.