Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a global image competition that showcases ecological research through photography. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos from researchers worldwide at different stages of their careers, capturing 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 titled “Intertidal education.” This photo was taken while Brennan supervised undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B., showcasing their curiosity during a night session under the bright full moon.
Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher at Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, won the category “protecting our planet” with his image titled “A bridge between past and present.” This composition of 33 drone photos captures the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River, illustrating the impact of human activities on ecosystems.
Photographers like Brennan and Tian emphasize that images serve as a vital tool to document research activities and communicate the value of ecological studies to the public. Brennan’s previous accolades include winning the 2025 Images of Research competition at UNB for his photo “Tides of Change,” showcasing the importance of sharing research initiatives to inspire meaningful change and promote ecological awareness.
Tian believes that showcasing ecosystems through photography can foster natural empathy and encourage people to connect with their environment, even indirectly. His winning image, “A bridge between past and present,” sheds light on the unintended consequences of human actions on freshwater ecosystems, urging viewers to appreciate and protect these natural habitats.
Other notable winners in the BMC Ecology and Zoology competition include Sritam Kumar Sethy’s “Window to the Wetlands,” Ryan Wagner’s “A space for frogs,” Victor Huertas’ “Giant cuttlefish in breeding battle,” and Alwin Hardenbol’s “Go away,” among others. These images capture various aspects of nature and wildlife, highlighting the beauty and significance of ecological research in protecting the planet’s biodiversity and ecosystems.
