Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a global image competition that showcases ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos from researchers worldwide at different career stages. These images feature 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), won the research in action category with his photo titled “Intertidal education.” Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, claimed the “protecting our planet” category with his image titled “A bridge between past and present.”
For researchers, images serve as a means to document their work and offer insights into the world of science. Brennan emphasized the importance of images in building public trust and highlighting the significance of environmental education and ecological research.
Brennan captured the photo “Intertidal education” while overseeing undergraduate students conducting a fish monitoring project in St. Andrews, N.B. The photo showcases the students engaged in monitoring coastal fish species under the night sky, with a full moon adding a picturesque touch to the scene.
Tian’s image, “A bridge between past and present,” combines 33 drone photos of the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River, portraying the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Tian emphasized the impact of showcasing such images in raising awareness about conservation efforts and the unintended consequences of human activities on natural environments.
The competition also recognized other outstanding entries, such as “Window to the Wetlands” by Sritam Kumar Sethy, “A space for frogs” by Ryan Wagner, “Giant cuttlefish in breeding battle” by Victor Huertas, and “Go away” by Alwin Hardenbol, among others, all capturing unique aspects of wildlife and ecological research.
Through their captivating images, these researchers aim to foster a deeper connection with nature, promote conservation efforts, and communicate the importance of ecological studies to a wider audience.
