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:
First Place (11-14): "Wonders of the Twilight Zone" by Claire Kim, Age 12, Canada
Artist's Statement: Under the deep sea where it is a dark world full of mysteries, there are weird creatures we have not seen. When we think of the deep dark parts of the ocean, the creatures that come to mind usually look unattractive, bizarre, or very unsettling. However deep down in the twilight zone, it is like various colours of fireworks. You can find life with vibrant pinks and blues like a whole new dimension with its own beauty and mysteries. Some even carry light and grace upon seeing them. When a light is lit in the twilight zone, we can see the many charmers who have been hiding in the dark. The deep sea is not all about the big, scary, ugly, or distorted looking creatures, it is about a magical world full of beauty and mesmerizing sights to behold.
Winners & Finalists Ages 15-19:
"The Common Fangtooth" by Abbie Luthena, Age 16, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Artist's Statement: Anoplogaster cornuta. Found in depths of 500-5000 metres below the water surface of tropical and temperate oceans, a fangtooth’s teeth are the largest in the ocean in body size ratio so that it can envelope its prey whole. At first glance, this fish may be considered ugly. Although during the drawing process, I found the intricate lines of their prehistoric, bony exterior profoundly beautiful. Each line interlinks with the other to form intricate patterns like henna tattoos. The fangtooth represents the strange wonder of the deep sea that has encapsulated me since I was little. Deep sea creatures are powerful. They are impenetrable from time and conflict unlike the abrupt clock of humanity. These deep creatures do not gleam in the sea surface sunlight, but their power to survive the ages in a timeless, ominous manner is the wonder of the deep sea for me.
