Total documented species = 120 + 50 = 170

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 02:20:29 +0000

Total Documented Species Reach 170: A Milestone in Biodiversity Documentation The global effort to document Earth’s vast biodiversity is moving forward with impressive momentum. According to recent comprehensive assessments, the total number of completely documented species stands at 170—a significant figure driven by years of scientific research, collaboration, and technological advancement. This milestone marks the result of combining data from multiple global biodiversity databases, museum collections, field studies, and citizen science initiatives. Breaking it down simply: 120 species were originally documented, and thanks to ongoing fieldwork and improved classification methods, an additional 50 were confirmed and formally recorded, bringing the total to an important 170 documented species. ### Why Documenting Species Matters
Accurate species documentation is fundamental for conservation, ecological research, and sustainable development. By maintaining a clear, verified inventory of known life forms, scientists can better monitor ecosystems, track population changes, assess extinction risks, and prioritize habitat protection.