The aim of this list is to highlight to the wider public the discovery of the numerous new marine species being made every year. The 2024 winners span the tree of life, from worms to isopods to anglerfish - learn more at https://www.marinespecies.org/worms-top-ten/2024.

We plan to release our list to coincide with World Taxonomist Appreciation day - March 19th!  If you were unaware of this celebration of all the work that Taxonomists do, you can find more here, and here.

Species nominations

In contrast to previous editions, we no longer accept nominations through email. Please submit your nominations to your favorite species via this online form.
 
The species must have been validly published in 2025 (between 01/01/2025 and 31/12/2025), must be marine, and can be a fossil species.
 
Please make sure to include in your nomination: 

• The PDF of the paper in which the species was described.

• At least one good image of the species (with copyright and ownership information).

 
Strong candidates will have a compelling story behind the description, e.g. rare or unusual morphology, an interesting name, importance to society e.g for conservation/ medical importance/ toxic/ dangerous.

If you want to nominate several species, please fill in the nomination form for each species separately.
 
Decision Committee

We also need help to decide on the final list. Self-nomination for the Decision Committee is welcome. The decisions will be made via email discussion/vote.  
 
Please send your offers to volunteer to join the Decision Committee to info@marinespecies.org with the subject 'Top-Ten Marine Species Decision Committee'.   
 
Deadline

The closing date for submission of nominations is Sunday January 25th 2026 to enable the decision and preparation of the pages in time for March 19th 2026.

Please share this message with colleagues and reach out if you have questions.

We look forward to receiving your input!