In 2022, 146 new species from around the globe were added to the biodiversity database! These exciting discoveries were made possible by researchers, scientists, and even two high school students from the San Francisco-area. From isolated mountain peaks to hundreds of feet below the ocean’s surface, these new species included fish, rays, lizards, spiders, scorpions, and plants, representing one of the biggest leaps forward in species discovery in recent years. 

While we are excited about all the new species discovered, we are especially thrilled with the scientific progress made in our oceans. The beautiful Rose-veiled Fairy Wrasse was discovered by a researcher local to the Maldives, and this magnificent fish was named after the country’s national flower. There were also 14 new-to-science species of sea slugs discovered in the Indo-Pacific region.

The discovery of all these incredible creatures and plants is a testament to the beauty and complexity of our planet and its ecosystems. We can’t wait to see what 2023 uncovers!