Our Mission
The Ocean Census mission is to accelerate the discovery of ocean life to sustain and advance life on Earth.
Why it Matters
90% Undiscovered
Up to an estimated 2.2 million marine species exist; we’ve documented less than 10%
13
years
It takes an average of 13 years to identify and formally describe a new marine species
1/3
at risk
Over one-third of marine mammals and reef-building corals are threatened with extinction
Over
1000
Scientists suggest current species extinction rate is over 1000 times higher than the natural rate
800+
years
At the current rate of discovery, it would take several centuries to catalogue all ocean life
“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.”
— Prof. Lucy Woodall, Principal Scientist, Nekton
The benefits of
discovering ocean lifeSustain life
Advancing scientific knowledge of ocean life improves our ability to support, maintain and strengthen the ocean’s bio-geochemical systems that provide our atmosphere, regulate our climate and feed billions of people.
Advance life
Identifying the biological, chemical and genetic properties and interactions of ocean life drives innovation including in biotechnology – such as the discovery of new drugs to treat disease.
Conserve life
Ocean life and biodiversity data underpins national and international biodiversity commitments and policies, empowering ocean conservation and sustainable governance.
Preserve life
Ocean life is under threat. Discovering ocean life now, will help preserve the legacy of four billion years of evolution for generations to come.
Join the census
An Alliance of scientists, governments, marine research institutes, museums, philanthropy, technology, media and civil society partners.
