About 71 percent of the Earth’s surface is water-covered. The planet has one global ocean that has been divided into distinct geographic regions. Only 20 percent of it is visible to us. Scientists say that 80 percent of the ocean has never been mapped, explored, or even seen by humans. There’s still so much to learn about what it holds.

The World Register of Marine Species is a comprehensive database managed by hundreds of scientists worldwide. About 2,000 marine species are discovered every year and entered into the register. Earlier this month, researchers contributing to the World Register of Marine Species released their list of 10 favorite marine species that were discovered in 2020.

Without any further ado, here are the fascinating species humans have only recently found and described:

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Bioluminescence is nothing new. It is found in many marine organisms – some can produce their own light while others host bacteria that do. It is estimated that about 76 percent of ocean animals rely on bioluminescence for communication, camouflage, finding prey, and more.

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Resembling something like the modern versions of the ancient moai figures of Easter Island, six stone faces now welcome divers eager to explore the underwater world off the French resort town of Cannes. This is the first project of this kind in the area, and who else to contribute to this remarkable museum than the renowned British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor.

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Marine biologist Erika Woolsey has been diving for over two decades. Having witnessed first-hand the damages brought to coral reefs and sea life by climate change, the scientist became aware of the need to raise awareness of reef damage and inspire others to protect the world’s oceans.

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The remains of at least six pirates were discovered in a 300-year-old shipwreck off the coast of Cape Cod, announced the Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth. Along with the human skeletons, the investigative team from the museum came across several artifacts, including small gold bars and silver coins.

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Researchers with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) claim they have identified a new species of whale in the Gulf of Mexico.

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Thousands of oil rigs pierce the surface of the water throughout the world. Some are still functional and drilling for oil, while others have been abandoned or partially removed. Oil rigs may not look like much above the surface, but underwater they provide some amazing photographic opportunities. These massive metal structures provide habitat to an abundance of marine life, which is also part of the reason why oil rigs have become such popular destinations for scuba divers in search of something else than natural reefs.

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Underwater cultural heritage sites are fascinating for both researchers and the general public. Some of these spots are not easily accessible, but thanks to the advancements in technology it is now possible to explore these magnificent sites without getting wet. We’ve compiled some of the most interesting virtual underwater museums so you can discover historical wrecks from behind the screen.

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People have long been fascinated with shipwrecks and the treasures they may hold. These windows to the past connect us to our cultural heritage and teach us lessons about the impact of the environment, human error, or war upon human life. These wrecks can ultimately help the environment as over time, they can become a habitat for many marine plants and animals.

Due to their size or history, some shipwrecks have become more popular than others. Let’s look at the most famous shipwrecks that you can get up close to.

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New year, new ban on harmful sunscreens. As of January 1, 2021, the state of Hawaii is no longer selling over-the-counter sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. It is the first state in the United States to pass such a law.

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