Ocean Census initiative reports discovery of over 1,100 new marine species

The Ocean Census project, an initiative launched by the Nippon Foundation and Nekton, has recorded the discovery of 1,121 new marine species within one year. This figure represents a 54% increase over the typical annual rate of species identification. The findings resulted from 13 separate expeditions reaching depths of up to 6,575 meters. Global collaborators on this mission include JAMSTEC from Japan, Australia's CSIRO, and the Schmidt Ocean Institute from the United States. Key discoveries include a 'Ghost Shark' chimera in Australia's Coral Sea Marine Park at depths of 802–838 meters and a 'Crystal Castle' worm in Japan. Experts estimate that 90% of all marine species remain undiscovered. The project aims to accelerate taxonomic discovery to provide policymakers with evidence for ocean conservation efforts, noting that one-third of known sharks, rays, and chimeras are currently vulnerable to extinction.