Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a global photography contest that showcases ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos from researchers worldwide at various career stages. These images feature animals in their natural habitats, scientists and students engaged in ecological research, and other natural scenes.
Liam Brennan, a master’s student and photographer at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), won the competition’s research in action category with his photo “Intertidal education.” Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, was awarded in the “protecting our planet” category for his image “A bridge between past and present.”
Images play a crucial role for researchers in documenting their work and conveying the essence of science to the public. Brennan emphasized that these images help build trust in the importance of environmental education and ecological research.
Brennan captured “Intertidal education” while supervising undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B. The photo showcases the students’ curiosity as they conducted research at night, illuminated by the full moon. Brennan faced challenges keeping electronic devices dry due to the Bay of Fundy’s high tides, which can reach up to 16 meters.
Tian’s photo, “A bridge between past and present,” features 33 drone photos of the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River. This composition offers a unique perspective of the ecosystem, highlighting the impact of human actions on the environment. Tian believes that such images can raise awareness about conservation efforts and the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
The winning photo at the BMC image competition was “Window to the Wetlands” by Sritam Kumar Sethy, showcasing an orange-tailed marsh dart damselfly. Other notable entries included “A space for frogs” by Ryan Wagner and “Giant cuttlefish in breeding battle” by Victor Huertas. These images capture diverse ecological scenarios, emphasizing the need for conservation and environmental protection.