In the last two years, a wave of newly identified species has expanded our understanding of life on Earth. From glowing jellyfish in ocean depths to brilliantly coloured insects in dense forests, these discoveries reveal the breadth and beauty of lifeforms that have, until now, remained unseen.
They also serve as stark reminders of how much biodiversity still lies undiscovered, and how fragile many of these habitats are in the face of human impact. Notable among these finds is a colossal bioluminescent jellyfish, a Himalayan bat, a tiny blue ant and an electric-blue tarantula, each offering a wonderful story of survival and adaptation.
The colossal squid
In April 2025, researchers recorded the first video of a juvenile colossal squid in its natural deep-sea environment. The sighting took place at a depth of nearly 600 metres. The footage offers valuable information about the squid’s appearance,....