How many living penguin species are generally recognized today?

Eighteen living penguin species are generally recognized today.

These species range from the emperor penguin of Antarctica to the Galápagos penguin, which reaches the equator. Most live in the Southern Hemisphere, although their habitats include temperate coasts, sub-Antarctic islands, and Antarctic sea ice.

Species totals can vary slightly among sources because taxonomists sometimes debate whether geographically separated populations deserve full species status. The commonly cited modern count, however, is 18 living species.

Penguins are grouped into six living genera. The largest genus is Eudyptes, which contains several crested penguins, including rockhopper, royal, macaroni, and Fiordland penguins.