The initiative

Unknown Germany is a research initiative to identify and communicate Germany’s biodiversity.

Considerable parts of this diversity are still unknown: While we still know the species of large animals and plants very well, there are large gaps in our knowledge of less conspicuous invertebrates, microscopic plants, fungi and microorganisms. However, they are immensely important for the function of our ecosystems. Under the umbrella of „Unknown Germany“, a consortium of more than 50 researchers is conducting a large number of research projects to record this hidden diversity. This consortium currently includes eight research institutes, and a number of associated projects are already underway. In addition, a large number of research projects will be submitted to various funding organisations in the coming months and years. The initiative is set to run for at least 10 years and new players, institutions and projects will be added on an ongoing basis.