866 new marine species discovered globally in Ocean Census

Researchers have identified at least 866 new marine species as part of the Ocean Census, a global initiative launched in April 2023. This ten-year project aims to enhance knowledge of marine life and protect it from extinction. Among the discoveries are a guitar shark, a squat lobster resembling a feathery spider, and a unique octocoral found in the Maldives. These species were located using divers, submersibles, and robots, with analysis involving DNA sequencing and imaging. The Ocean Census seeks to expedite the identification process, which can take up to 14 years. Currently, only about 10% of marine life is known, highlighting the need for faster methods to understand and protect ocean biodiversity.