A Global Mission

The Ocean Census is a global mission to discover, document and share the diversity of life in our ocean — before it’s lost.

Join the Census

We are an Alliance of scientists, governments, marine research institutes, museums, philanthropy, technology, media and civil society partners.

News

Spotlighting Dr Belén Arias

Highlighting the work of Dr Belén Arias, the Science Manager for Species Discovery & Sequencing at the Ocean Census

22/01/25

“Why should we care about a ‘worm’?” | An Interview with Dr. Franziska Sophie Bergmeier, Solenogastres Expert

These small, "worm-like" creatures might not have the charismatic appeal of octopuses or dolphins, but they play a crucial role in ocean ecosystems and offer valuable insights into biodiversity and evolution.

16/01/25

That’s a Wrap! A timeline of Achievements at the Ocean Census in 2024

In 2024, the Ocean Census achieved exciting milestones in advancing the understanding and discovery of marine biodiversity.

20/12/24

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

From Abstract to Action: Our Communication Insights from CommOcean

Whether it’s learning to balance accuracy with relatability, harnessing the power of storytelling, or turning the abstract into action, CommOcean offered an ocean of insight for communicators.

11/12/24

Following the Nazca Ridge Expedition: The Chile Species Discovery Workshop

This species discovery workshop will allow us to uncover potential new species from the Nazca Ridge expedition.

05/12/24

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

From COP16 to COP29: Using Marine Species Data to Drive Climate Action

By exploring where marine species data is being captured and how geographic biases impact global climate policy, we can begin to develop more inclusive, effective climate strategies.

07/11/24

Why should we care about Arctic Biodiversity? A message to COP16

In the icy depths of the Arctic Ocean lies a world that remains largely unknown to science, a hidden realm brimming with unique marine life and untapped biodiversity.

01/11/24

Expedition
Spotlight

JAMSTEC Shinkai

4 June – 23 June 2025

The JAMSTEC Shinkai Expedition is a 20-day research mission that brings together Japanese Agency of Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) and The Nippon Foundation-Nekton Ocean Census.

The Ocean Census is a global effort with a bold vision. Together with our partners, we are accelerating the discovery of marine species, building a comprehensive genetic library of ocean life, and influencing ocean policies worldwide.

Join the census

An Alliance of scientists, governments, marine research institutes, museums, philanthropy, technology, media and civil society partners.