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Name a New Species!
According to a study from researchers at the University of Arizona (published here), roughly 6,000 new species of insect are described every year. And it's estimated that there are at least 9,000,000 more to discover!
In 2025, on a budget less than the electric bill for most small businesses, we contributed to the discovery of at least 6 new species (2 new genera). And with more support, we hope to name dozens, even hundreds, of new species over the next few years as part of our Initiative 100.
With so many pending discoveries, we'll need some creative names... that's where you come in.
Now... there's no guarantee that we'll find new species EVERY year, but it is a very achievable goal.
However, it heavily depends on individual support and contributions. That said, species discovery is a lot less rare than you might expect. With so many insects out there, and so few taxonomists/entomologists, it's tough to keep up!
HOW IT WORKS
Step 1: Donate - Using the donation box here, contribute however much you can. We'll add your name to our Name a Species donor list.
Step 2: Species Discovery - As species are discovered, we'll notify donors (you) of the discovery.
Step 3: Donor selection - Highest donors will get first pick. If you're making monthly contributions, the total cumulative contribution to date will determine your place on the list. If selected, you will have an option to provide the epithet to be used for the species, whether it's a loved one's name, your name, a favorite movie character... whatever you decide. Or, you can pass to the next donor in line (I guess some people don't want to name new mosquito species after a loved one).
Step 4: Name Confirmation - We confirm the name is available can be used according to rules and regulations regarding species naming.
Step 5: Publication - We will publish the official description of the new species with your selected epithet, then send you a copy of the publication with a professional photograph of your insect!
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