The Ocean Census involves around 800 scientists from over 400 institutions globally, utilizing advanced technology such as genetic sequencing and real-time imaging to facilitate quicker identification of new species.

Dr. Michelle Taylor, Principal Investigator at the Ocean Census, emphasizes the urgency of documenting marine biodiversity before critical species are lost.

Launched in April 2023, the Ocean Census is an ambitious initiative aimed at accelerating the identification of marine species and addressing the risk of extinction before documentation can occur.

The mission seeks to document 100,000 marine species, highlighting significant gaps in our knowledge about ocean life, as only about 10% of marine species are currently identified.

Recently, the effort has led to the discovery of 866 new species, including a guitar-shaped shark and a venomous deep-sea snail, showcasing the diversity yet to be uncovered.

The guitar shark, identified off the coasts of Mozambique and Tanzania, is among the most threatened vertebrate groups, with two-thirds of its family at risk.

Another notable discovery is the Turridrupa magnifica, a venomous marine gastropod found near New Caledonia and Vanuatu, which may have biotechnological applications for pain relief and cancer treatment.

A new octocoral species was also identified in the Maldives, marking the first record of its genus from the region and underscoring the ongoing exploration of marine biodiversity.

The initiative aims to collect and analyze samples to advance knowledge of marine biodiversity, which is crucial for conservation and scientific advancements.

These discoveries were made during ten global expeditions using divers, piloted submersibles, and remotely operated vehicles, exploring depths ranging from 3 feet to 3.1 miles.

Endorsed by the United Nations Ocean Decade, the Ocean Census plans to establish a global network for marine research, with more expeditions and workshops scheduled for the coming year.

The collaborative effort has already awarded 19 Species Discovery Awards to taxonomists, highlighting the importance of teamwork in marine research.