Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a global photo competition that showcases ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photographs from researchers worldwide at different career stages. These images capture animals in their natural habitats, scientists and students conducting ecological research, and various natural scenes.
Liam Brennan, a master’s student and photographer at the University of New Brunswick, won the competition’s research in action category with his photograph “Intertidal education.” Meanwhile, Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, clinched the “protecting our planet” category with his image “A bridge between past and present.”
For researchers, photography serves as a means to document their work and provide insight into the realm of science. Brennan emphasized the importance of images, stating that they help establish public trust in environmental education and ecological research endeavors.
Brennan captured “Intertidal education” while overseeing undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B. The photograph showcases the students working at night, with a full moon in the background, capturing a moment of curiosity on their faces.
Tian’s winning image, “A bridge between past and present,” features 33 drone photos of the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River, portraying the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Tian expressed his passion for showcasing ecosystems, even those impacted by human activities, to underscore the significance of conservation efforts.
The overall winner of the BMC image competition was “Window to the Wetlands” by Sritam Kumar Sethy, while the runner-up was “A space for frogs” by Ryan Wagner. Victor Huertas’ photograph “Giant cuttlefish in breeding battle” won the category titled “relationships in nature.” Other highly commended entries included images by Brandon Güell, Abhijeet Bayani, Vineet Kumar, and Luke Jeffrey, capturing various aspects of ecological research and conservation efforts.
Photographers participating in the competition highlighted the role of images in fostering natural empathy and enhancing public understanding of environmental issues. Through their visually captivating work, they aim to raise awareness about the importance of ecological studies and conservation practices.