Scientists estimate that the number of insect species on Earth could be significantly higher than previously understood, potentially ranging between 14 and 30 million, rather than the commonly cited six million.
A new study, which utilized multiple collection techniques, ecological observations, DNA barcoding, and statistical analysis, found that a substantial portion of insect species remain undiscovered and unnamed. The research team's conservative estimate suggests that between 93% and 97% of insect species are currently unknown to science.
This finding underscores how much biodiversity remains hidden, prompting calls for better methods to understand and manage the planet's life.
The study's methods, which combined various scientific approaches, consistently revealed a large number of cryptic species. These techniques, initially applied to research in Costa Rica, can be adapted for use globally, including in regions like the UK.
Conservationists argue that without knowing the full extent of life on Earth, effective management and protection strategies are difficult to implement. The researchers involved in the study were affiliated with institutions including Cornell University, the University of Colorado, and the University of Kentucky. The findings emphasize the need for continued exploration and documentation of the planet's biodiversity to understand the species we share our planet with, those already lost, and how to protect the remaining survivors.