New Species Count: 8.7 Million

According to a recent statistical analysis of Earth’s biodiversity, there are currently 8.7 million different species on the planet. What do you think?

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  “So we can lose the polar bears and it's no big deal, right?”

  Adam Ward –
  Systems Analyst

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  “I think that's a surprisingly even number for there not to be an intelligent designer behind it all.”

  Laura Waterhouse –
  Gastroenterologist

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  “It's great to finally have a fixed number. As an avid organism-watcher, I've already checked 383 species off my life list. And look, a dandelion—384! I'm getting closer.”

  Jim Sutton –
  Jug Builder