Ocean Census Information

Did you know, the average length of time to describe a new species is 13.5 years? The Ocean Census is the largest programme in history to discover new marine life. Founded in 2023 by lead partners Nekton and The Nippon Foundation, and endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade, the 10 year programme aims to accelerate the rate of species discovery. Because we cannot protect what we don't know exists. The Ocean Census is made possible as a result of a growing Alliance: partners across a wide variety of disciplines including expeditions, science and research, technology, government and policy, media, and operations. We’re also building the Ocean Census Science Network, a global community passionate about species discovery. The Network provides science and research opportunities, promotes training resources, and provides funding for taxonomic research. Individuals and institutes are welcome to join the Alliance or Ocean Census Science Network today. Please visit our website or get in touch directly.