Marine Keystone Species

March 1, 2025

Written by Liz Thompson

Winners of the 2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge

The 2025 Science Without Borders® Challenge invited young artists from across the globe to create artwork highlighting species that play a critical role in maintaining the structure and health of ocean ecosystems with the theme, “Marine Keystone Species.” This theme encouraged students to illustrate the critical roles these species play in shaping and sustaining healthy ocean ecosystems.

We were amazed by the response—more than 1,300 entries from 75 countries poured in—each piece a unique interpretation of a marine keystone species, from sea otters and mangroves to corals and sharks. These species may not always be the most numerous or well-known, but they have an outsized impact on their environment. Their presence helps maintain biodiversity, balance food webs, and support ecosystem resilience. If a keystone species is removed, the entire ecosystem could shift dramatically or collapse. Through their art, students explored these complex ecological relationships and made a compelling case for ocean conservation.

These stunning artworks showcase diverse marine life, from foundational species at the base of the food web and grazers to apex predators and ecosystem engineers. Prepare to be inspired by their imaginative interpretations and powerful messages about protecting the species that keep our ocean in balance. We are proud to showcase the 2025 Challenge winners, whose art encourages us to appreciate the species that keep our oceans healthy and in balance.

Winners & Finalists Ages 11-14:

"Ocean’s Equilibrium" by Henry Kim, Age 13, Canada

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ARTIST STATEMENT: Sea turtles play a huge role in keeping the ocean healthy, but most people don’t realize just how important they are. Without them, seagrass would grow out of control, covering the ocean and making it hard to see its true beauty. In my painting, beams of light shine on the turtle, representing those people in our lives who help us without our notice. Just like how one lightbulb can brighten an entire room with a single click, some people bring happiness and support into our lives in ways we don’t always see. This artwork is a reminder to appreciate those who make a difference, even in the smallest ways.

Winners & Finalists Ages 15-19:

1st Place (15-19 years old): "The Keeper" by Hyungjun Chin, Age 18, Republic of Korea

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ARTIST'S STATEMENT: Sea otters are a keystone species crucial for maintaining marine ecosystems by controlling sea urchin populations and protecting kelp forests. In California, their decline led to a surge in sea urchins, resulting in overgrazed kelp forests and the creation of "urchin barrens." Conversely, areas where sea otters are protected have seen decreased urchin populations and thriving kelp forests, benefiting diverse marine life. In this painting, I represent the interconnectedness of sea otters, sea urchins, and kelp forests by depicting an otter hunting a sea urchin. This scene captures both underwater and above-water perspectives, emphasizing the vitality of the kelp forest and the otter’s essential role in ecological balance. The stark contrast between the purple sea urchins and golden kelp highlights the tension between destruction and preservation, underscoring the otter's significant environmental impact.

From Dialogue to Action: Ocean Foundations Gather in Stockholm

What can philanthropy accomplish when foundations working across ocean science, conservation, and sustainable development come together around a shared purpose?

That question was at the heart of the 6th UN Ocean Decade Foundations Dialogue, held September 7–9 in Stockholm, Sweden. The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation joined philanthropic organizations from around the world for three days of discussion, collaboration, and planning focused on accelerating progress during the second half of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Facilitated by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), the UN Ocean Decade Foundations Dialogue is a growing network of more than 30 philanthropic organizations committed to advancing ocean science, collaboration, and action. Since its creation within the framework of the Ocean Decade, the Dialogue has provided foundations with a space to exchange ideas, develop partnerships, and explore how philanthropy can help advance a healthy and resilient ocean.

Hosted by the Voice of the Ocean Foundation (VOTO), this year’s gathering began with From Depth to Action, an Opening Forum that brought nearly 100 leaders from the Swedish and international ocean community together at…

Meet IFAN: Helping Bring Navigate with Care to the Next Generation

If you’ve ever seen a lighthouse flashing from the shore or a brightly colored buoy bobbing in the water, you’ve seen Aids to Navigation at work.

Aids to Navigation, often called AtoNs, help mariners navigate safely. They can mark channels, warn of hazards, help vessels determine their position, and provide other information people need to make safe decisions on the water. Around the world, these systems help guide everything from small recreational boats to large commercial or container ships.

But safe navigation isn’t only about protecting vessels and the people aboard them. The choices mariners make can also affect the animals and ecosystems beneath and around them.

That connection between maritime safety and ocean conservation is at the heart of this year’s Science Without Borders® Challenge—and of our partnership with this year’s theme sponsor, the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN).