New species discovered in 2025 show accelerating pace of discovery

A study led by the University of Arizona reports scientists are describing about 16,000 species a year, and the research emphasizes that formal taxonomy is a key step for conservation.

Scientists report a rising rate of species description in recent years, including discoveries noted for 2025. The University of Arizona led a study that estimates researchers are identifying roughly 16,000 species per year. Many of the organisms now described were observed or photographed earlier but had not been formally named. The study's co-author, ecology professor John Wiens, described formal taxonomy as a first step in conservation. Key points: - Scientists estimate about 10 species are lost to extinction each year. - Researchers estimate roughly 16,000 species are formally described annually. - Many newly described species had been seen or photographed previously but lacked formal identification. - John Wiens, an ecology professor at the University of Arizona, said formal classification is a first step for conservation. - About 2.5 million species are currently known, while the true number could be in the tens or hundreds of millions or even the low billions, according to the study. Summary: The study highlights an increased pace of species description and emphasizes the role of taxonomy in recognizing organisms that may need attention. Undetermined at this time.