The official number of species inhabiting the country last year was 62,604. Shown is the new plant species Potentilla rhizoma (Rosaceae). (National Institute of Biological Resources)

By Margareth Theresia

The official number of species living in the country last year was 62,604, or 1,374 more than 61,230 in 2024.

The Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment and the National Institute of Biological Resources (NIBR) on Feb. 9 said this in a joint announcement.

The National List of Species of Korea released that day reported 5,795 species of plants; 2,191 vertebrates; 32,684 invertebrates; 6,612 fungi; 6,709 algae; 2,619 protozoa; and 5,994 prokaryotes.

In addition, 307 were added to the list: 215 invertebrates; 76 prokaryotes; eight plants; seven fungi; and one fish.

Among the newcomers, Potentilla rhizoma is a herbaceous perennial herb indigenous to the central region of the Korean Peninsula. Characterized by four-lobed leaves and yellow five-petal flowers, it displays the ecological trait of roots extending sideways for reproduction.

Another new species, the earthworm Thoracophelia foliformis, is characterized by a leaf-shaped tail. This invertebrate lives on the sandy beaches along the Yellow (West) Sea and filters and eats organic matter.

Others include the turtle beetle Pseudochelonarium japonicum and the moth Homodes vivida. Their main habitats are known to countries in tropical regions like India and Indonesia, with an NIBR analysis saying climate change was why these species were found in Korea.

The institute annually updates and releases the list by incorporating species newly found in Korea among those overseas and those reported for the first time worldwide.

margareth@korea.kr