Virtual worlds seem to be popping up more quickly than spring flowers, and a new study bears that notion out. According to research released by Austin, Texas-based Virtual Worlds Management there are more than 100 virtual worlds operating or in development for the under-18 demo.

The company has just released findings from a 12-month study dubbed Virtual Worlds Management’s Youth World Analysis. The study in-full provides details on more than 100 worlds, of which 60 are currently live, with 52 in the conception, development or testing phases.

The general teen category (eight to 12 years old) dominates the category, with 65 worlds live or in development, followed closely by kids (seven and under) with 55 worlds live or in development.

The research groups all of MTV’s and Disney worlds as singular entities. Further details of the study can be found at www.virtualworldsmanagement.com/2008/youthworlds.html.