How Many Species Are There?

The video explores the challenge of determining the number of species on Earth, highlighting historical and modern approaches to classification. It discusses the limitations of current estimates and the importance of identifying species for understanding and conserving life on the planet.

What is the main reason scientists struggle to determine the exact number of species on Earth?

• The vast diversity and inclusion of microbes

• Lack of interest in biodiversity

• Political restrictions on research

• Limited technology for species identification

Who was the scientist that contributed significantly to the taxonomy system still used today?

• Carl Linnaeus

• Charles Darwin

• Isaac Newton

• Aristotle

Why is defining a species considered challenging?

• There are too few species to study

• Species are constantly evolving

• All species have already been discovered

• Species are only found in specific regions

What is one reason our estimates of species numbers vary so widely?

• Inconsistent research methods

• Overestimation of known species

• Limited global data sharing until recently

• Lack of interest in certain species

Why is it important to identify and describe all species on Earth?

• To impress extraterrestrial visitors

• To understand and conserve Earth's biodiversity

• To increase the number of scientific publications

• To reduce the number of extinct species