100 New Species Discovered in the Incredibly Diverse Waters of the Philippines

Scientists have discovered a staggering 100 new species in the ocean water of the Philippines. The findings are the result of a multi-year exploration of the Coral Triangle's biological treasures.

"The Philippines is jam-packed with diverse and threatened species-it's one of the most astounding regions of biodiversity on Earth," said Terry Gosliner, one of the researchers, in a news release. "Despite this richness, the region's biodiversity has been relatively unknown. The species lists and distribution maps that we've created during our years surveying the country's land and sea will help to inform future conservation decisions and ensure that this incredible biodiversity is afforded the best possible chance of survival."

The expedition in the Philippines zeroes in on the Verde Island Passage, which is a veritable treasure trove of marine life nestled between the Philippine islands of Luzon to the north and Mindoro to the south. This took field researchers to the southern end of the site.

The researchers snorkeled in sandy shallows and scanned deep, clear-water reefs in order to examine and collect specimens. In the end, the researchers catalogued a staggering 100 new species.

"It's critical we fill the gaps in the knowledge about the life that thrives in the Philippines-you never know when you're going to discover a living fossil among the corals," said Will Love, one of the researchers. "We want to work with folks in the Philippines and global scientific community to help sustain these unique environments for generations to come."

The findings are published in the journal Proceedings of the California Academy of Sciences.

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