Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a global image competition that celebrates ecological research through photography. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos captured by researchers worldwide at different career stages. These captivating images showcase animals in their natural habitats, scientists and students engaged in ecological research, and various natural landscapes.
Liam Brennan, a master’s student and photographer at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), clinched the top spot in the competition’s research in action category with his photo titled “Intertidal education.” Brennan captured this image while overseeing undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B. The photo depicts the students in action, pulling up species from the shore at night under the glow of a full moon, highlighting their curiosity and dedication to ecological research.
Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, won the category titled “protecting our planet” with his photo “A bridge between past and present.” This striking image is a composition of 33 drone photos showcasing the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River. Tian’s photo illustrates the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the impact of human activities on the natural world, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts.
Both photographers stress the significance of images in building public trust and empathy toward the environment. Brennan believes that sharing research through visuals can enhance understanding and appreciation for ecological studies, while Tian emphasizes that photography can evoke a sense of connection to environments and ecosystems that might otherwise go unnoticed.
These winning images not only showcase the beauty of nature but also serve as powerful tools in communicating the value of ecological research and conservation efforts to a wider audience.