Discovering New Animals: Taxonomy & Ecosystems

Zoological exploration is the primary method for new animal discoveries. Taxonomy, a branch of biology, helps classify these newly discovered species. Ecosystems around the globe such as rainforests and deep oceans constantly reveal new fauna. Conservation efforts often lead to the identification of species previously unknown to science.

• Imagine a world map where the edges are constantly being redrawn, not by political upheaval, but by the remarkable discovery of new creatures! It’s easy to think that in this age of satellites and instant information, we’ve already cataloged every critter roaming the Earth. But hold your horses (or should we say, hold your newly discovered seahorses?) because the truth is, animal discovery is an ongoing adventure, a never-ending quest, not a done deal.

• So, why should we care about finding new species in the 21st century? Is it just about bragging rights for scientists? Absolutely not! It’s about expanding our scientific understanding of life on Earth, which helps us piece together the complex puzzle of our planet’s ecosystems. Discovering new species is also super crucial for conservation efforts. How can we protect what we don’t even know exists? And let’s be honest, there’s a sheer sense of wonder that comes with realizing the incredible biodiversity that still hides in our world. It’s like finding a brand-new chapter in the book of life!

• Now, let’s talk about something we call the “Closeness Rating.” Think of it as a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 is something completely out of left field and 10 is pretty darn close to something we already know. When we find a new species with a Closeness Rating in the 7-10 range, it’s a big deal. These discoveries fill important gaps in our knowledge, connecting the dots between known species and offering new perspectives on evolution and adaptation. Plus, understanding these closely related species can lead to innovative conservation strategies. It’s like finding the missing ingredient that makes the whole recipe work better! These discoveries can help refine conservation efforts because they are similar to known species and their behavior.

The Science Behind the Search: Zoological Disciplines in Action

Zoology, at its heart, is the grand maestro of animal discovery. It’s the overarching scientific discipline that orchestrates the entire process of understanding, categorizing, and appreciating the animal kingdom. Think of it as the umbrella under which all the specialized branches thrive, each playing a crucial role in unveiling the Earth’s hidden creatures.

But zoology doesn’t work alone! It’s more like a superhero team-up of specialized sciences. Each discipline brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. Let’s meet the team:

Herpetology: Scaly Discoveries

Herpetology is the study of amphibians (frogs, salamanders, newts, and caecilians) and reptiles (snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises, crocodilians, and tuataras). These cold-blooded critters are constantly surprising us.

• Example: The dazzlingly colored Variegated toraja lizard, a new species of lizard discovered in Indonesia, boasts vibrant patterns and fills a gap in our understanding of Southeast Asian reptile biodiversity. (Closeness Rating: 8).

Ichthyology: Plunging into the Depths

Ichthyology focuses on the study of fish! The underwater world is vast and still largely unexplored, meaning new fish species are constantly being discovered, especially in deep-sea environments or remote freshwater systems.

• Example: The Luzon snakehead](https://www.google.com/search?q=Luzon+snakehead&tbm=isch&ved=2ahUKEwi-u-j66IWGAxX7UWwGHXFjC5QQ2-cCegQIABAA&oq=Luzon+snakehead&gs_lp=EgNpbWciEkx1em9uIHNuaWtlZWFkSABYAEABeACQAQCYAQCgBIgFAQ&sclient=img&ei=WOY0ZuXqEfuismAP8sasaA&bih=931&biw=1920), a distinctive snakehead species found only in the Philippines, highlights the unique biodiversity of island ecosystems. (Closeness Rating: 7).

Entomology: The Six-Legged Universe

Entomology dives into the world of insects! With millions of species already known, and countless more waiting to be discovered, entomology is a field overflowing with potential. New species are identified almost daily!

• Example: The leafhopper insect, has been discovered in Madagascar and boasts a unique way of camouflaging itself using surrounding leaves.(Closeness Rating: 9).

Ornithology: A Sky Full of Secrets

Ornithology is all about birds. While birds are generally well-studied, new species are still being identified, often through genetic analysis or the discovery of distinct songs or behaviors.

• Example: The *”cryptic warbler,” a bird species found in Southeast Asia. It was initially mistaken for a more common species, but *genetic analysis and subtle differences in its song revealed it to be a distinct and previously unknown species (Closeness Rating: 8).

Mammology: Unearthing the Furry Frontier

Mammology studies mammals, and while new mammal discoveries are relatively rare, they are often significant due to our closer evolutionary relationship and the impact these findings can have on conservation efforts.

• Example: The *Taron macaque*, discovered in a remote region of Myanmar. The monkeys had subtle differences in appearance and behavior compared to known macaque species. (Closeness Rating: 7).

These are just a few examples of how zoological disciplines are constantly expanding our knowledge of the animal kingdom. Each discovery, big or small, adds another piece to the puzzle of life on Earth.

Where Wonders Hide: Habitats and Biomes Yielding New Species

• Rainforests: Picture this: a symphony of sounds, a kaleidoscope of colors, and more species crammed into a single acre than you can imagine. That’s the rainforest for you! These lush, steamy jungles are basically the Earth’s treasure chests when it comes to undiscovered critters. We’re talking about everything from technicolor frogs with skin that could knock you out (seriously, some are poisonous!) to elusive insects that look like living jewels. Think of the recently discovered Vanderbilt’s Paradise Flycatcher in the Philippines, a vibrant testament to the rainforest’s hidden avian wonders. The Amazon, the Congo, Southeast Asia – these are the places where the next great animal discovery is probably just around the corner.

• Deep Sea: Now, let’s plunge into the abyss, where sunlight fears to tread. The deep sea – it’s like another planet right here on Earth! We’re talking bizarre bioluminescent fish with angler-like lures, ghostly octopuses floating in the dark, and giant squid that could give you nightmares (in a good way, if you’re a marine biologist). Exploring these depths is a huge challenge, like trying to find a specific grain of sand on a beach in the dark. But every time we send a submersible down, we find something new and mind-blowing. How about the ghostly Dumbo octopus, a recent find that looks like a cartoon character come to life? Each dive unveils new ecosystems and creatures that laugh in the face of everything we thought we knew about life on Earth.

• Arctic Regions: Brrr! Time to bundle up and head north. You might think the Arctic is all ice and snow, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. With climate change altering habitats, we’re seeing some surprising animal finds. Species are moving into new areas, hybrids are popping up, and scientists are racing to document it all. Think about the increase in sightings of unusual Arctic foxes in new territories, hinting at range shifts and adaptations we’re only beginning to understand. It’s a rapidly changing environment, and the animals are full of surprises!

• Caves: Down, down we go, into the earth’s mysterious underbelly. Caves are like nature’s secret laboratories, home to creatures that have adapted to complete darkness and limited resources. We’re talking blind fish, albino salamanders, and spiders that look like they came straight out of a horror movie. Every cave system is unique, a little world unto itself. Consider the discovery of new species of cave-dwelling beetles with unique adaptations to their pitch-black environment. Who knows what other weird and wonderful critters are lurking in the shadows, just waiting to be discovered?

• Tropical Forests: Similar to rainforests, but with their own distinct vibe, tropical forests are biodiversity bonanzas. These forests are usually more seasonal than rain forests, offering specialized niches for animals. From colorful birds to stealthy mammals, tropical forests have a knack for concealing diversity. Take, for instance, the recent find of the Tapirus kabomani, a new species of tapir discovered in the Amazon, showcasing that even large mammals can remain hidden in these dense ecosystems.

• Coral Reefs: Let’s not forget the underwater cities of the sea – coral reefs! These vibrant ecosystems are home to a mind-boggling array of fish, corals, and invertebrates. They’re also under serious threat from climate change, so discovering and documenting new species is more important than ever. Think of the countless species of small reef fish that are yet to be fully described, each playing a crucial role in the reef’s delicate balance. Sadly, we’re losing these treasures faster than we can explore them, so every discovery is a race against time.

Tools of the Trade: Unmasking Earth’s Hidden Creatures

So, you’re probably wondering, “How exactly do scientists go about finding totally new animals?” It’s not like they’re just stumbling over them on their morning commute (although, wouldn’t that be wild?!). Nah, it takes a whole toolkit of cutting-edge tech and good ol’ fashioned detective work. Think of these methods as the ultimate spy gear for the natural world!

The Power of DNA: Cracking the Code

First up, we’ve got DNA analysis. This is where things get seriously sci-fi. Think of DNA as an animal’s unique barcode. DNA barcoding allows scientists to quickly compare genetic snippets from different animals. If the differences are big enough, BOOM! You might have a new species on your hands. Genomics, on the other hand, is like reading the entire encyclopedia of an animal’s genetic makeup. It provides even more detailed insights into evolutionary relationships and helps confirm that what you’re looking at is, in fact, brand spanking new!

Getting Your Boots Dirty: The Crucial Role of Field Research

Of course, you can’t do it all in a lab. Field research is where scientists actually get out there, brave the elements, and spend countless hours observing animals in their natural habitats. This is where the real adventure begins. They meticulously record behavior, study ecological interactions, and try to piece together the puzzle of an animal’s life.

Specimen Collection: Preserving the Evidence (Ethically, Of Course!)

Sometimes, you need a physical piece of the puzzle to really understand what you’re dealing with. Specimen collection – done ethically and with all the necessary permits, mind you – plays a vital role. Preserved specimens in museum collections act as invaluable resources for scientists around the globe, allowing for detailed study and comparison over time.

The Art of Observation: Paying Attention to the Little Things

Don’t underestimate the power of simply watching. Often, the keen eye of a seasoned researcher can spot subtle differences in behavior, unique morphological traits, or a preference for a specific habitat that hints at a new species.

Camera Traps: Wildlife’s Paparazzi

Camera traps have revolutionized wildlife research. These remote, motion-activated cameras allow scientists to snoop on elusive or nocturnal animals without disturbing them. They’re like wildlife paparazzi, snapping photos and videos that can reveal never-before-seen behaviors and physical characteristics, leading to new species discoveries!

Listening to Nature’s Symphony: The Magic of Acoustic Monitoring

Finally, there’s the world of sound. Acoustic monitoring involves recording and analyzing animal vocalizations. Each species has its own unique sonic fingerprint, and new calls or songs can be a telltale sign of a new species. This is especially important for studying birds, amphibians, and insects that communicate primarily through sound.

Unlocking the Secrets: Anatomical and Physiological Features

Okay, so you’ve stumbled upon a weird-looking critter in the jungle (hypothetically, of course, unless you actually did, in which case, kudos!). How do you know if it’s just a quirky version of something already known, or a brand-spankin’ new species? Well, aside from the DNA stuff (we’ll get to that, promise!), anatomy and physiology play a HUGE role! Think of it like this: nature is a wildly creative artist, and sometimes it throws in completely unexpected features.

Camouflage: Masters of Disguise

Ever played hide-and-seek with a chameleon? Good luck! Camouflage isn’t just about blending in; it’s an art form! We’re talking about unique patterns, color-changing abilities, and even structural adaptations that make an animal practically invisible. A newfound insect with iridescent wing patterns that mimic specific leaves in its habitat? A frog whose skin texture perfectly resembles the bark of a rare tree? That’s a giant neon sign screaming, “I’m new here!”. These visual tricks aren’t just for show; they’re crucial for survival, making it harder for predators to spot them and easier for them to sneak up on prey.

Bioluminescence: Nature’s Night Lights

Picture this: you’re exploring a dark cave, and suddenly, tiny lights begin to twinkle around you. No, it’s not a rave (though that would be pretty cool). It’s probably bioluminescence! The ability to produce light is mind-blowingly common in the deep sea, but when you find it in unexpected places – say, a land-dwelling snail or a new type of fungus gnat larvae – it’s a major clue that you might be onto something special. Discoveries aren’t just about what it is, but how that bioluminescence is being used. Is it for attracting mates, luring prey, or even warding off predators? That can give scientists insights into how a species evolved.

Adaptation: Thriving in the Extreme

“Adapt or die,” as they say, and some animals have taken that advice very seriously. When you find a creature thriving in an environment that would kill most others, that’s a red flag (in a good way!). Think about it, fish that survive in freezing arctic water thanks to unique antifreeze proteins in their blood. Or perhaps they are animals in caves that can survive without light due to heightened senses. These extreme adaptations are often signs of long-term isolation and specialized evolution, making the likelihood of a new species discovery pretty high.

Genetic Makeup: The Blueprint of Life

Okay, we can’t see genetic uniqueness with the naked eye (unless you have superpowers, in which case, call me!), but it’s the ultimate way to confirm a new species. While anatomical and physiological differences can be suggestive, DNA is the definitive proof. If the genetic code of an animal is significantly different from that of any known species, congratulations, you’ve definitely found something new! It’s like finding a secret recipe that nobody else has ever seen. The genetic data helps classify how the animal fits into the tree of life, and its relation to other species.

A Race Against Time: Conservation Status and the Urgency of Discovery

Okay, folks, let’s talk about why finding new critters isn’t just a cool science project—it’s a full-blown emergency! Imagine stumbling upon a species so incredible, so unique, that it could rewrite biology textbooks… only to realize it’s teetering on the brink of vanishing forever. That’s the reality we face. Discovering new species is inextricably linked to conservation. It’s not just about ticking boxes on a list of “things to find”; it’s about arming ourselves with the knowledge we need to protect what’s left of our planet’s incredible biodiversity.

Endangered Species: A Desperate Plea

Think of it like this: if a building’s on fire, you want to know exactly who’s inside, right? Same goes for our planet. Discovering a new species, especially one already facing the endangered species label, is like hearing a desperate cry for help. We can’t protect what we don’t know exists! Finding these species before they wink out of existence gives us a fighting chance to understand their needs, their role in the ecosystem, and how to pull them back from the edge.

Threatened Species: The Warning Signs

Then there are the threatened species—the ones flashing warning signs. They’re not quite on the brink, but they’re heading that way fast. Discovering these at-risk populations allows us to put conservation plans in place, hopefully preventing them from becoming endangered. Conservation, after all, is easier and more cost-effective when it’s proactive rather than reactive. Think of it as catching a cold before it turns into pneumonia—easier on the body, and the wallet!

Conservation Efforts: Superheroes in Action

Thankfully, we’ve got a whole league of superheroes dedicated to this mission: conservation organizations. From the big names like WWF and Conservation International to smaller, local groups, these folks are on the front lines. They’re the ones implementing conservation efforts, protecting habitats, combating poaching, and working with communities to ensure these newly found species (and existing ones) have a future. These organizations rely on scientists’ discoveries to implement effective solutions.

Habitat Loss: The Great Eraser

But here’s the kicker: all this amazing work can be undone by one massive problem: habitat loss. Imagine discovering a brand-new frog with incredible healing properties, only to watch its forest home be bulldozed for a palm oil plantation. Talk about a tragedy! Habitat destruction is the single biggest threat facing undiscovered species. Without a place to live, thrive, and breed, these animals simply can’t survive, no matter how many scientists and conservationists are on their side. Therefore, habitat preservation is key.

Biodiversity: A Symphony of Life

At the end of the day, it all boils down to biodiversity. Every species, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, plays a role in the intricate web of life. Losing even one species can have ripple effects throughout the entire ecosystem. Discovering new species and understanding their importance underscores the critical need to maintain biodiversity. It’s not just about saving individual animals; it’s about protecting the health and stability of the entire planet. It’s like a symphony: losing one instrument can throw the whole performance out of tune. Discovering new species reminds us of the orchestra’s size and potential and encourages us to protect every musician within.

Putting Them in Their Place: The Classification of New Species

Okay, so you’ve found something totally new—congrats! But now what? You can’t just plop it down on the planet and say, “Yep, that’s a…thing.” That’s where taxonomy and classification come in. It’s like giving your newly discovered animal its own special spot on the family tree of all living things. It’s all about figuring out where our new critter fits in the grand scheme. Think of it as the ultimate “getting-to-know-you” process, but for science!

• Species: First things first, what makes this thing unique? What makes it different from all the other things we’ve already seen? It’s all about nailing down the specific characteristics that set it apart—maybe it’s the color of its scales, the way it sings, or its totally unique mating dance. If it can’t successfully breed with another group of animals, then that’s also a big clue that it’s it’s own species.

  • Sub-Heading Tag: Defining Species Boundaries

• Genus: Okay, now that we know what makes it special, let’s see if it’s got any close cousins. The genus is like the animal’s last name; it groups together closely related species that share a common ancestor and similar characteristics. It might be brand new, and our critter might be the only one of its kind or it might have a few cousins waiting to be discovered.

  • Sub-Heading Tag: Finding a Spot in the Family Tree

• Family: Time to zoom out a bit. The family is a broader group that includes several genera (that’s the plural of genus, in case you were wondering!). Animals in the same family share fundamental characteristics and often have similar lifestyles or ecological roles. Think of it as grouping animals by lifestyle: like all cats, or all dogs, or all bears.

  • Sub-Heading Tag: Expanding the Circle: The Family Connection

• Order: Even bigger picture now! The order groups together families that share even more distant evolutionary relationships. This is where things start to get a bit abstract, but it’s still important. For instance, primates are an order: they include monkeys, apes, and, well, us!

  • Sub-Heading Tag: Placing Animals Within Orders

• Clade: Now for the cutting-edge stuff! Clades are all about evolutionary relationships. Using genetic data and shared characteristics, scientists figure out which animals share a common ancestor and group them together in a clade. It’s like figuring out the branches of the evolutionary tree. These are the cutting edge of how biologists categorize the relationship between groups of animals.

  • Sub-Heading Tag: Deciphering Evolutionary Relationships

Global Hotspots: Where the Wild Things Keep Being Found!

Alright, explorers and armchair adventurers, let’s talk about the VIP lounges of the animal kingdom – the places where new critters are popping up faster than mushrooms after a spring rain. We’re talking about the global hotspots for animal discovery! These are the regions on Earth that are just bursting with undiscovered life, practically begging for a biologist to stumble upon them.

• Madagascar:

  Ah, Madagascar, the land where lemurs leap and evolution went a little… quirky. This island nation is a living laboratory of biodiversity, thanks to its long isolation from the African mainland. It’s like someone hit the “randomize” button on the animal creator. Every year, scientists are turning up new species of chameleons that can fit on your fingertip, geckos with psychedelic patterns, and lemurs with calls that sound suspiciously like they’re gossiping. It’s a treasure trove of the weird and wonderful, and we’re still scratching the surface of what it holds. I feel like it can even be a script for a movie.

• The Amazon Rainforest:

  Next up, we dive into the emerald embrace of the Amazon. This place isn’t just a forest; it’s a pulsating, breathing megacity of biodiversity. New species are being discovered in this vast river basin faster than you can say “uncharted territory.” From vibrantly colored frogs with potent skin toxins to fish with bizarre adaptations to survive in the murky depths, the Amazon is a testament to the sheer inventiveness of nature. You could spend a lifetime wandering through this green labyrinth and still stumble upon something no one has ever seen before. Imagine that!

• Borneo:

  Let’s swing over to Borneo, an island in Southeast Asia that’s as lush as it is teeming with life. This is a land of orangutans, proboscis monkeys with noses that seem to defy gravity, and iridescent insects that sparkle like living jewels. Borneo’s rainforests are a hotbed of evolutionary activity, and scientists are constantly uncovering new species of snakes, lizards, and frogs that were previously unknown to science. The rate of discovery is so high here that researchers practically need a spreadsheet to keep track of all the new finds.

• New Guinea:

  Last but definitely not least, we have New Guinea, an island that’s like the “Land of the Lost,” but, you know, real. This is a place where birds of paradise flaunt their flamboyant plumage, tree kangaroos hop through the canopy, and insects come in every imaginable shape and size. New Guinea’s remote and rugged terrain has helped preserve its biodiversity, and scientists are regularly discovering new species of mammals, birds, and reptiles that are found nowhere else on Earth. It’s a reminder that there are still corners of our planet that remain largely unexplored, waiting to reveal their hidden wonders.

So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the planet’s most happening spots for animal discovery. These aren’t just places on a map; they’re living, breathing testaments to the incredible diversity of life on Earth. And with so much still left to discover, who knows what other amazing creatures are waiting to be found?

Focus On: A Look at Specific Animal Groups

Alright, let’s get up close and personal with some cool critters that have recently hopped, slithered, swam, buzzed, chirped, or scurried their way onto the scientific stage! We’re talking about the kinda-sorta-new-to-us species that fall into that sweet spot of a “Closeness Rating” between 7 and 10 – basically, those that are different enough to warrant a double-take and a brand-new name tag.

Amphibians: Ribbiting Revelations

Frogs, those jumpy jewels of the rainforest, are constantly surprising us. Take, for instance, the chocolate frog (Litoria mira) discovered in New Guinea. While other green tree frogs inhabit Australia and New Guinea, this frog’s unique color is what made it a new species. It’s kind of like finding out that one of your friends has a secret twin you never knew about!

Reptiles: Scaly Sensations

Snakes, lizards, and other scaly friends frequently pop up as new species, especially in under-explored tropical regions. A recent find is the Gekko bonkowali from Indonesia. This gecko is found only on a small island and its small habitat leads it to be marked as an endangered species.

Fish: Fin-tastic Finds

Down in the inky depths or hidden in the freshwater streams of remote locales, new fish species are always making waves. Take the anglerfish Lasiognathus beebei, found in the deep sea. Anglerfish have unique adaptations such as bioluminescent lures to attract prey in the dark. These unique adaptations and geographic isolation often lead to the discovery of new species.

Insects: Buzzworthy Bugs

Insects: Where do we even begin? The insect world is so vast that new species are popping up left and right. It’s like discovering a new grain of sand on the beach – except each grain is a buzzing, crawling, fascinating little world of its own! Remember, insects are the largest animal group to date. A particularly interesting one is a stick insect, Phryganistria tamdaoensis. The body length of this species is 230 mm making it the largest stick insect species discovered in Vietnam.

Birds: The Chirp Heard ‘Round the World

Even in the well-studied world of birds, new species can still be found, sometimes hiding in plain sight. Genetic analysis and close observation can sometimes reveal that what we thought was one species is actually two (or more!). One such discovery is the Sintang Sunbird. The bird’s discovery was made by analyzing genetic differences between the Sintang Sunbird and other closely related species.

Mammals: Making Headlines

While mammal discoveries are less frequent (we’ve generally done a pretty good job of cataloging the bigger, furrier creatures), they’re often quite impactful. One recent example is the Taron Long-Tailed Giant Rat which was found in Northern Myanmar. It is a completely new genus and species of rat and is different from all the other known giant tree rats in the area. These finds highlight the importance of continuing to explore remote areas and utilizing genetic analysis to confirm unique species.

Guardians of the Unknown: Organizations Leading the Charge

Okay, so who are the caped crusaders (minus the capes, mostly) out there battling to find and protect these amazing critters? Well, let’s meet some of the major players, shall we? These are the organizations working tirelessly to understand, conserve, and celebrate the incredible diversity of life on our planet.

World Wildlife Fund (WWF): Conservation Ninjas

You’ve probably seen their adorable panda logo, but the World Wildlife Fund is way more than just a cute face. These guys are like the conservation ninjas of the world, working on the front lines to protect endangered species and their habitats. From tracking snow leopards in the Himalayas to tackling illegal wildlife trade in Africa, WWF is knee-deep in research and conservation efforts globally. They are constantly striving to innovate conservation by using techniques that provide real-world results.

Conservation International: Hotspot Heroes

Conservation International has a laser focus on biodiversity hotspots—those special places crammed with an unusually high number of species. These “hotspots” are often under threat, making CI’s work even more critical. They dive into science, partner with local communities, and influence policy to protect these precious ecosystems and the unique creatures that call them home.

The Nature Conservancy: Land-Loving Legends

If land conservation were a popularity contest, The Nature Conservancy would win, hands down. They’re all about protecting ecologically important lands and waters around the world. By buying land, creating conservation easements, and working with landowners, they ensure that vital habitats remain safe havens for wildlife. Think of them as the ultimate real estate moguls, but instead of building condos, they’re building wildlife sanctuaries!

Universities with Zoology Departments: Brainy Biologists

Last but certainly not least, let’s give a shout-out to the universities! Packed with brilliant zoology departments, these institutions are hives of scientific discovery. Researchers and students are out in the field, in the labs, and in the libraries, piecing together the puzzle of life on Earth. From groundbreaking DNA analysis to in-depth ecological studies, universities play a crucial role in identifying new species and understanding their place in the world. These are the places where the next generation of conservationists are trained and inspired.

So, there you have it—a team of guardians working tirelessly to uncover the mysteries of the animal kingdom and protect its treasures for generations to come. They are the unsung heroes, the champions of biodiversity, and the reason we can still be amazed by the wonders of our planet.

So, keep your eyes peeled and your curiosity piqued! Who knows what amazing creatures are still out there waiting to be found? The world is full of surprises, and the next incredible animal discovery might be just around the corner.