A Global Mission

The mission of the Ocean Census is to accelerate the discovery of ocean life to advance fundamental science, empower conservation, and fuel innovation for the future of our planet.

Join the Census

The Ocean Census Alliance unites national and philanthropic marine institutes, museums, and universities, backed by governments, philanthropy, business and civil society partners.

PRESS RELEASE: New Coral Gardens and Hydrothermal Vents Found in the Icy Depths of the Remote South Sandwich Islands

An Ocean Census Flagship expedition and GoSouth team of scientists found suspected new species, discovered one of the island chain’s shallowest hydrothermal vents, and explored the deepest trench in the Southern Ocean.

29/05/25

PRESS RELEASE: First Footage of Live Juvenile Colossal Squid – filmed on the Ocean Census expedition to the South Sandwich Islands

In an astounding moment for ocean science, a juvenile Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni—the elusive colossal squid—has been captured alive on camera for the first time in its natural habitat.

15/04/25

PRESS RELEASE: The Ocean Census Discovers Over 800 New Marine Species

The largest global mission to discover ocean life reveals over 800 newly discovered marine species.

10/03/25

PAPER PUBLISHED: Sanctuary for vulnerable Arctic species at the newly discovered Borealis Mud Volcano

One would think that a volcano was not the most hospitable place for living organisms. However, the Borealis Mud Volcano, at ~ 400 m water depth, acts as a sanctuary for a number of marine species.

28/01/25

Nominations are open for the WoRMS Top-Ten Marine Species of 2024

It's time to shine a light on the top ten remarkable new marine species from 2024.

18/12/24

The Ocean Census Awards 2024 funds more taxonomists to accelerate vital species discovery

These awards reflect our commitment to empowering taxonomists who are dedicated to identifying and classifying life in our oceans.

20/11/24

The Ocean Census featured in the latest Deadly 60 episode with Steve Backshall

We’re thrilled to announce that the Ocean Census will be featured in the latest series of Deadly 60 with Steve Backshall.

25/09/24

The Ocean Census Awards Recipients 2024

The Ocean Census Taxonomy and Event Awards 2024 recognize and support outstanding researchers who are advancing marine taxonomy and accelerating the discovery of new species.

19/09/24

PRESS RELEASE: The Ocean Census 2024 Taxonomy and Event Award Recipients Announced

The Ocean Census, the world’s largest initiative to accelerate ocean species discovery, is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Taxonomy and Event Awards.

19/09/24
Join the census

The Ocean Census Alliance unites national and philanthropic marine institutes, museums, and universities, backed by governments, philanthropy, business and civil society partners.