Why do we need a journal about lost species?

Abstract

Lost species, those that have not been documented in the wild for extended periods but not declared extinct, are a critical blind spot in biodiversity conservation. Thousands of lost species have been identified, and they occur across most taxonomic groups and ecosystems, yet they remain poorly integrated into extinction risk assessments and conservation planning. Information on lost species is scattered across the scientific literature, institutional databases, and conservation NGO records, and there is currently no dedicated forum for developing shared definitions or rediscovery verification standards, nor for keeping track of data on when species become lost or rediscovered. Here, we set out the rationale for establishing the Journal of Lost Species as a centralized platform for lost species research and discourse. We summarize the scale and consequences of the lost species problem and identify priority tasks. These include refining working definitions, developing a comprehensive cross-taxa database integrated with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, improving consistency in tracking last-seen dates and Data Deficient taxa, and supporting more strategic rediscovery efforts. By articulating these needs, we aim to provide a foundation for a community of practice around lost species and to clarify how a dedicated journal can help translate growing interest in lost species into coordinated research and conservation action.