A scientist examining small insects under a microscope in a lab.

The search for Earth’s most mysterious creatures is turning up extraordinary results | AI News Digest

Published: September 2, 2025, 7:09 p.m. Science Positive

Scientists are uncovering the vast unknowns of Earth's biodiversity, revealing that around 90% of life remains undiscovered. This includes countless small organisms crucial to ecosystems, often referred to as 'dark taxa' or 'biology's dark matter.' Recent advancements in DNA sequencing are accelerating the identification of these species, with researchers finding new ones in various locations worldwide. The goal is to document all life on Earth, which could be achieved in decades with sufficient funding. Understanding these organisms is vital for ecosystem health and our survival, as they play key roles in environmental processes.

BiodiversityDark TaxaSpecies DiscoveryDNA SequencingEcosystems