The Ocean Census and Senckenberg Collaborate

The Ocean Census and Senckenberg Collaborate to Propel Marine Species Discovery

The Nippon Foundation-Nekton Ocean Census, a global initiative dedicated to discovering marine life, proudly announces its partnership with the Senckenberg Society for Nature Research. This cooperation is poised to significantly enhance efforts in understanding and protecting marine biodiversity, combining the Ocean Census’s innovative methods with Senckenberg’s extensive natural history collections and taxonomic expertise.

The Ocean Census, launched by The Nippon Foundation and Nekton in April 2023, aims to accelerate the discovery of marine life. With an estimated 1-2 million species in our ocean, only a small portion—about 10-25%—has been documented. Historically, marine species have been identified at a steady pace of around 1,500-2000 per year since the 1850s. However, advancements in imaging, DNA sequencing, and artificial intelligence now promise to dramatically accelerate this rate.

Senckenberg, with 8 institutes across Germany and over 800 staff from 50 nations, is one of the leading research institutions on biodiversity in Germany. Senckenberg’s marine research will play a crucial role in this global effort, leveraging their renowned scientific capabilities and initiatives, such as the Senckenberg Ocean Species Alliance. The partnership will engage Senckenberg in the Ocean Census activities, including joint expeditions, knowledge sharing, and public engagement, thus strengthening this grand collaborative effort. The partnership will also innovate, test, and deploy new technologies to enhance species discovery, including DNA sequencing, 3D imaging, and AI-driven data analysis.

“Acceleration of species description in marine ecosystems is crucial for our vision to decipher the role of biodiversity in ecosystem dynamics. This collaboration between the Ocean Census and Senckenberg signifies a fusion of expertise and a commitment to providing open access to biological samples and data to scientists, policymakers, and the general public. Each discovery promises to guide sustainable management and protection of marine ecosystems.”

Prof. Dr. Angelika Brandt, member of Senckenberg’s Board of Directors and Head of Marine Zoology in Frankfurt.

The Ocean Census builds upon significant historical marine exploration initiatives, such as The Challenger Expeditions and The Census of Marine Life.

“Our endeavour is not the first of its kind, but it is undoubtedly the most ambitious and timely. Collaborating with Senckenberg enables us to magnify our impact, ensuring that our discoveries contribute profoundly to both our understanding and stewardship of the ocean.”

Prof. Dr. Alex Rogers, Science Director at The Ocean Census.

The Nippon Foundation of Japan, a private, non-profit foundation for social innovation, and marine research charity Nekton, a UK-based marine science and conservation institute, are coordinating partner activities, funding, and managing the Ocean Census Science Network, species discovery, expeditions, and public and policy engagement activities.

Call for Scientists to join the Ocean Census Science Network:

Cooperation with scientists and institutes around the world is a vital part of our mission. Ocean Census continues to invite partners from diverse sectors to get involved by joining the Alliance, composed of partners who all share a passion and drive to discover and protect ocean life.

Join the Ocean Census Science Network today.

Image Credits: Ramona Osche / Ocean Image Bank