7 unique species that were discovered in the last 20 years

The last two decades have been remarkable for biodiversity discovery, with scientists unveiling new species that expand our understanding of life on Earth. These discoveries are crucial for conservation efforts and provide insights into the planet’s ecological complexities. This article highlights seven fascinating species that were unknown to science until recently.

Discovered in 2013, the Olinguito (Bassaricyon neblina) is a small mammal native to the cloud forests of Ecuador and Colombia. It became the first new carnivore species identified in the Americas in over three decades. Weighing around two pounds, the Olinguito is an omnivorous creature with a diet that includes fruits and insects.

Image: Courtesy of Mark Gurney

In 2020, researchers discovered two new species of Six-Gill Sawsharks (Pliotrema kajae and Pliotrema annae) in the Indian Ocean. Unlike their five-gilled relatives, these sawsharks possess an extra gill on each side. Their long snouts with a comb-like set of teeth are distinctive features.

Image: Cambridge University

The Bald Parrot (Pionopsitta aurantiocephala), identified in 2002, is a bird with a strikingly featherless face and neck. Native to South America, its vividly orange head stands out in the avian world. The discovery of this species surprised ornithologists due to its unique appearance.

Image: Courtesy of Fabio Olmos/Macaulay Library

Named after the iconic pop star, Lady Gaga’s Treehopper (Kaikaia gaga) was introduced to science in 2020. This insect is known for its peculiar horns and vibrant fashion sense, much like its namesake. Treehoppers are recognized for their plant-based diet and musical abilities using vegetation.

Image: Illinois University

The Vangunu Giant Rat (Uromys vika), found in 2015, is a large rodent from the Solomon Islands known for eating coconuts. At 18 inches long and weighing 2.2 pounds, it is four times heavier than a typical city rat. This species was already familiar to locals before its scientific confirmation.

Image: Lavery et al., Ecology and Evolution 2023

The Skywalker Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock tianxing), discovered in 2017, swings through the forests of China and Myanmar. Its name, inspired by the Star Wars saga, reflects the gibbon’s arboreal agility. This primate is distinguished by its white eyebrows and a circumspect nature.

Image: Primate Wonder/Facebook

The Ninja Lanternshark (Etmopterus benchleyi) is a captivating species that resides in the depths of the eastern Pacific Ocean. Discovered in 2015, it is distinguished by its sleek, jet-black skin which provides excellent camouflage in the dark waters ranging from 836 to 1443 meters deep. This shark possesses specialized bioluminescent organs called photophores, which emit light and play a crucial role in its survival.

Image: Dr. J. Mallefet - FNRS, UCLouvain

The vastness of Earth’s biodiversity is staggering, with scientists estimating that a significant portion of life forms remain undiscovered. Current research suggests that humans have only identified about 20% of the species on Earth. This implies that as much as 80% of Earth’s species are waiting to be discovered. Another study posits that approximately 86% of terrestrial species and 91% of marine species have yet to be described.

Image: Canva