Mangroves and Underwater category, Highly Commended.

Jillian Morris spies two juvenile lemon sharks in the Bahamas

“These juvenile lemon sharks were cruising in a deeper pocket at the edge of the mangrove forest. They can still seek refuge but are spending more time away from the nursery habitat as they get older and bigger.

“This species is also social, especially when they are young. They are often seen seeking refuge, hunting, or resting together.”

Mangroves and Landscape category, Highly Commended.

Vladimir Borzykin frames picturesque mangrove trees during a colourful sunset on the Andaman islands.

“Behind the beauty of white sand beaches and coconut palm trees, the rugged coast of Neil island (Shaheed Dweep) in Andaman islands archipelago, studded with picturesque mangrove trees, is largely overlooked.

The sea around the island being very shallow, the tide recedes far away from the shore exposing an extremely sharp rocky reef. After a week of 'dancing' around this particular set of mangroves, trying different photo compositions and, luckily, having low tide and sunset timing coincide, I came up with this shot that captures the essence and atmosphere of the place and moment.”

Mangroves and Underwater category, Highly Commended.

Purwanto Nugroho captures the charm and power of underwater mangrove habitats.

“Mangroves act as a natural filter that can remove most pollutants before they reach the ocean. Soil and mangrove biomass have a significant capacity to store carbon from the atmosphere, helping to reduce carbon dioxide concentrations in the air.

“The complex roots of mangroves help bind soil and sediment, reduce erosion, and protect against damage due to waves or currents. Thus, mangrove conservation efforts are crucial to maintaining environmental sustainability and human life."

Mangroves and Wildlife category, Highly Commended.

A forest cat after hunting in the mangrove forest of Bandar Abbas, Iran

The jungle cat, also called the reed cat or swamp cat, is an endangered species in Iran. The solitary species are expert nocturnal predators with a taste for rodents, fish, and small birds.

“One autumn day, I had gone to the mangrove forest to photograph birds, when I suddenly saw this cat. Even the locals rarely see this cat, and I feel very lucky to be able to photograph this forest cat.”

Mangroves and Wildlife category, Highly Commended.

Sebastián Calle has an unexpected encounter while birdwatching in the mangroves of Punta Soldado.

“The silky anteater (Cyclops dorsalis) is a recently described species, quite difficult to find due to its size and low populations, which are increasingly threatened by habitat deforestation.

“While searching for better angles in the mangrove mud to photograph some orioles, I came across this small anteater. I had little information about the species, its behavior, and its vulnerability, so I took the photos with a telephoto lens and encouraged the local community participating in a bird monitoring program to care for it, understand its importance, and protect its habitat.”

Mangrove Photographer of the Year, Overall Winner.

Supratim Bhattacharjee witnesses a girl, standing before her tea shop, which is completely ruined by sea water in Frazerganj, Sundarbans.

“After Cyclone Aila struck the Sundarbans in 2009, it became clear that frequent cyclonic events will turn the residents of the Sundarbans into climate refugees. Between May 2019 and May 2021, the Sundarbans faced four cyclones – Fani, Bulbul, Amphan, and Yaas – each devastating enough to justify the fear of mass displacement.”

“An image that raises a thousand questions, whilst connecting you to the girl’s heart. Her vulnerability exposes the full impact of climate change and sea level rise experienced by many coastal communities”, says judge Dhritiman.

Nestled in the Bay of Bengal, the Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world – and one of the most vulnerable. Once lauded as nature's custodians, these mangroves now endure relentless threats driven by human development and the climate crisis.

Rampant deforestation has compromised its role in climate regulation, exacerbating soil erosion and leaving vast stretches vulnerable to encroaching waters, particularly during cyclonic disturbances.

Mangroves and Underwater category, Highly Commended.

Shane Gross frames a Morelet’s crocodile, king of the mangroves.

“I was snorkeling in a beautiful mangrove lagoon when this Morelet's crocodile decided he was warm enough and entered the water from his favorite sunbathing rock.”

Also known as the Mexican crocodile or Belize crocodile, Morelet’s are found exclusively in the Atlantic regions of Mexico, Brazil, and Guatemala.

There are thought to be 79,000 to 100,000 individuals living across marine coastal and wetland habitats.

Young Mangrove Photographer of the Year, Winner.

An in-camera multiple exposure image of elements of the mangrove captured in the dark.

"Equipped only with my macro lens, I wanted to capture more than just this young saltwater crocodile when I encountered it at low tide in the mangroves.

“I used the multiple exposure mode in my camera to superimpose layers onto my image of the croc's eye to capture more of the scene without sacrificing detail of the eye.

“Captured at night, the image gives off a slightly unsettling feeling, such as what one may experience in a mangrove, unknowing of what predators may be lurking nearby, hidden by the dense network of the mangrove."

Mangroves and Threats category, Runner Up.

Jeff Thamert records a rocket launch above Florida’s mangroves.

“This was shot near the SpaceX launch facility where launches are happening far too often, which has already had some negative effects on The Indian River Lagoon and sanctuary. We have seen the decline of water quality and sea grasses, which has affected sea life, plants, and animals.”

Mangroves and Underwater category, Runner Up.

Nick Conzone captures the moment a Diamondback terrapin emerges from its underground burrow in the Gulf Coast of Florida's mangrove islands.

“The diamondback terrapin is a keystone species, crucial for defending mangroves from snails, crabs, clams, and small fish. By keeping these populations in check, these turtles prevent overgrazing that could damage the mangroves and disrupt the ecosystem.

“They are well-adapted to their habitat, navigating underwater root systems with agility. Their webbed feet and strong beaks enable them to hunt effectively, ensuring the health of the mangrove forests by maintaining balanced prey populations.

“In the black mangrove islands, terrapins make their homes in shallow burrows dug into the soft mud. These burrows provide protection and a vantage point for watching their surroundings. Without mangroves, terrapins would be forced to live closer to shore, facing greater risks from human interaction, pollution, and habitat destruction.”

Mangroves and Landscape category, Highly Commended.

A breathtaking coastal panorama in Abu Dhabi reveals a mesmerising play of colours.

“Abu Dhabi's diverse ecosystem, teeming with marine life, is adorned by resilient mangrove trees. Renowned for their exceptional salinity resistance, these trees feature aerial roots that emerge as slender columns allowing for respiration.

“Beyond their ecological significance, mangrove swamps actively contribute to reducing air pollution and mitigating the effects of climate change by absorbing greenhouse gases.”

Mangroves and Wildlife, Winner.

Restoration scientist and photographer Mark Cook witnesses a bottlenose dolphin grabbing a mullet from the air during ‘mud-ring feeding’.

“Mud-ring feeding is a rare and unique fishing behavior employed by bottlenose dolphins living solely in the shallows of the mangrove-lined bays of Florida Bay and just a few other locations in the Caribbean.

“On finding a school of mullet, a single dolphin from the pod encircles the fish kicking up the sediments with its tail, which effectively corrals the fish into an ever-tightening spiral-shaped silty plume. The fish don’t like to be trapped or swim through the sediments, so they typically try to jump out of the water and over the “net” to freedom.

“Unfortunately for the fish, the dolphins have a remarkable capacity to know where the fish are going to jump and will snatch them from the air as they try to make their escape. The ability to strategize and coordinate such a hunt, as well as the ability to share equally, is a testament to the incredible intelligence of these animals.”

Mangroves and Underwater category, Highly Commended.

Grace Pempek observes a critically endangered juvenile smalltooth sawfish in the mangrove shallows at sunrise.

"If there is one thing I have learned in underwater photography, it is to always be ready, as you never know what the ocean will present to you—nor when. Luckily, that was the case for me when I encountered a juvenile smalltooth sawfish in the Florida Keys. I knew I had to make the most of my chance encounter with this bucket-list species—truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

“I was fortunate it seemed relaxed in my presence without any other beachgoers in the water. However, as more and more people came to the beach to watch the sunrise and enjoy their morning coffee, I slowly backed off the subject, not wanting to draw too much attention to this very rare and endangered animal.”

Mangroves and People category, Highly Commended.

Daniel Alvarez sheds light on the work of minorities in the peripheral regions of Colombia.

“In the peripheral regions of Colombia, the daily struggle for sustenance coexists with a rich cultural heritage and a deep-rooted connection to the land.

Aura Nelly – known as 'La Ñata' – and Gabriela, two piangua harvesters from La Plata in Bahía Málaga, Valle del Cauca, work meticulously in the mangroves, collecting mangrove cockle or 'piangua'.

“These cockles are a source of livelihood as well as living testimony to the interdependence between human beings and nature. Every gesture, every verse sung while they work, reflects the profound connection with the land and sea that surrounds them as well as the determination to preserve their cultural roots in an ever-changing world.”

Mangroves and People category, Winner. Johannes Panji Christo watches as a local Balinese man is covered in mud during a bathing tradition, locally known as Mebuug Buugan. “Men, women and children, wearing sarongs and traditional headgear, collect mud from a mangrove forest in Kedonganan village, just outside the town of Denpasar, and cover themselves as part of a purification ritual. Mebuug Buugan was recently revived after a 60-year hiatus. Hosted the day after the annual “Day of Silence Festival”, in which people stay home and self-reflect, the ritual sees people pray for gratitude and earth’s fertility.

Mangroves and Wildlife category, Highly Commended.

Abhishek Das spies a delicate mudskipper perched boldly on the tail of a massive crocodile.

“Is the mudskipper really the David? Tiny yet fearless, it contrasts sharply with the powerful, armoured crocodile, highlighting the stark difference in their sizes and the audacity of the smaller creature. Meanwhile, the crocodile’s tail resembles the numerous fights it has been through.”

Mangroves and People category, Highly Commended.

In the Sundarbans, the Mawli embark on the dangerous operation to harvest rare mangrove honey.

“In the heart of the Sundarbans, as spring turns to early summer, these brave honey collectors embark on 'Operation Golden Honey,' sanctioned by the forest department. Their goal is the rare mangrove honey, celebrated for its unique flavor and medicinal properties.

“Wearing masks on the backs of their heads to deter tiger attacks, they spend two weeks living aboard hand-driven boats, navigating narrow channels amid threats from increasing storms due to climate change.

“This honey, rich in flavor and medicinal properties, is sold to the forest department, providing vital income. The Mawli's sustainable practices ensure the honey harvest does not deplete bee populations or harm the environment, allowing the forest to thrive year after year.”

Mangroves and Threats category, Highly Commended.

Dipayan Bose witnesses a woman carrying a pot of drinking water surrounded by rising seawater in the Sundarbans, West Bengal.

“Due to repeated tropical cyclones and sea level rise in the Bay of Bengal, river embankments have broken and villages submerged. Farmlands and fisheries have been destroyed, and people are forced to take shelter in the upper lands, leaving their ancestral properties.

“Numerous diseases are now prevalent in these areas due to toxic water, malnutrition, and lack of proper medical support.”

Mangroves and Conservation Stories category, Runner Up.

Raj Hassanaly records restoration efforts by Anosikabija, a rural commune in Majunga, Madagascar.

“Bôndy, a private company working in ecosystem restoration, collaborates hand in hand with local communities to restore mangroves.

"The local communities realize that with the cutting of mangrove trees, it is becoming increasingly difficult to fish, catch crabs, or simply protect themselves from climate change and increasingly violent cyclones in these regions. Together, always with a smile and in good spirits, they traverse the mangroves to revive vast stretches of isolated land."

Mangroves and People category, Highly Commended.

Two women helplessly watch sea waves reclaim their homes in the Sundarbans.

The Sundarbans archipelago spans the borders of India and Bangladesh, with India laying claim to 40% of its approximately 40,000 square kilometers. The area is known for its rich forest resources, which locals rely on for income.

But rampant deforestation coupled with worsening storms has intensified food and water scarcity, diminished agriculture productivity and soil quality, and turned local communities into climate refugees.

“The COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing lockdowns delivered a severe blow to local livelihoods, especially for migrant laborers who found themselves without income or support. Cyclones like Amphan and Yaas inflicted significant damage, leaving many without sustenance or shelter.

“Adequate preservation of mangroves could have mitigated the catastrophic toll of these events. The Sundarbans face the prospect of witnessing one of the largest human migrations in history, with Kolkata at risk of submersion.

Mangroves and Landscape category, Highly Commended.

A cluster of mangrove trees at the water’s edge guard the coastline, protecting against erosion and providing habitat for countless species.

“During our exploration, these mangroves, positioned at the forefront of Faure Island, stood out as natural defenders against coastal erosion.

“This photograph captures their dense roots and lush foliage at dusk, with the calm seas and fading light creating a tranquil yet powerful scene. The image underscores the importance of these ecosystems in maintaining coastal integrity and supporting marine life.”

Mangroves and Conservation Stories category, Winner.

Giacomo d’Orlando portrays life in one of the most vulnerable places to climate change.

"In Demak Regency, a combination of human induced activities and the increasing pressure brought by climate change are threatening coastal communities. The coastline has been severely eroded, and mangroves that once protected the coast have been cut down and replaced by aquaculture ponds. As a result, the sea is literally swallowing people’s homes.

“Despite the difficult living conditions, most of Demak's residents don't want to move because their income potential is tied to their location near the sea. Over time, though, they have realised that the only solution is to restore the ecosystem by replanting the mangroves that had been cut down.

“A government policy based on mangrove transplantation, together with a reduction in groundwater extraction, could be the only way to ensure a future for the local coastal communities."

Mangroves and People category, Runner Up.

Upamanyu Chakraborty captures a Northern River terrapin (Batagur baska) before release as part of a conservation breeding program and rewilding in the Sundarbans.

“After a possible local extinction from the mangroves of Odisa, the estuaries of the Sundarbans are now the last resort of this brackish water-dwelling four-toed terrapin, thanks to relentless poaching for meat and harvesting eggs.

“However, a conservation breeding program was started in 2012 with a very small existing founder population from a village pond. Presently, this comprehensive program has reached a milestone. With blessings from 'Bonbibi', a deity worshipped by both Hindus and Muslims, who protect them from 'Dakshinray', the incarnation of Bengal Tigers, a successful rewilding program into the natural habitat of some sub-adult individuals with 'Satellite tags' was done in January 2022, along with a robust post-release monitoring program.

“By collecting the inputs from this pilot reintroduction, the hope is to bring back a viable population in the natural habitat of the Sundarbans.”

Mangroves and Underwater category, Winner.

Olivier Clement offers a glimpse into the intricate world of mangrove roots in the Bahamas. Judge Christian Zielger enjoyed the use of the mangrove roots as a captivating ‘frame’. “It evokes a sense of calm and peace”, he says.

“A turtle gracefully navigates the mangroves’ labyrinthine roots at high tide, seeking refuge for the night. At high tide, the water rises, engulfing the roots and transforming this space into a haven for marine life seeking shelter and safety.

“The turtle's journey is a poignant reminder of the vital role these ecosystems play in sustaining marine biodiversity. As the day fades into dusk, the turtle's search for a safe resting place reflects the delicate balance of life within the mangroves, highlighting the urgent need for conservation to ensure the survival of these invaluable habitats for generations to come.”

Mangroves and Wildlife category, Highly Commended.

Javier Orozco comes face to face with a crocodile at El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary in Bucerias in the State of Nayarit, Mexico.

“In the last 40 years, Banderas Bay has lost more than 80% of its wetlands to urban expansion. Crocodiles and other species continue to survive, now surrounded by busy highways, hotels, and condominiums.

“This crocodile sanctuary is a non-profit organization located next to a small lagoon. The surrounding area has been taken over by shopping centers, hotels, and condos and the biggest threat has been the "Flamingos" developers. Corrupt politicians have sold Federal and non-Federal land that has fragmented the remaining wetlands.”

Mangroves and Landscape category, Highly Commended.

Mangrove forests grow along creek lines on the tidal flats of Kakadu National Park.

Stuart Chape captured this shot from a helicopter in Australia’s Northern Territory. Mangroves are a significant ecosystem in the park’s coastal zone, which is only accessible by boat or air. Here, mangroves not only provide coastal protection but are also high in biodiversity and provide an important resource for Aboriginal people.

Mangroves and People category, Highly Commended.

Trapeang Sangkae Fishing Community Members help a group of locals to replant mangrove trees in Kampot, Cambodia.

“Bôndy, a private company working in ecosystem restoration, collaborates hand in hand with local communities to restore mangroves.

“The local communities realize that with the cutting of mangrove trees, it is becoming increasingly difficult to fish, catch crabs, or simply protect themselves from climate change and increasingly violent cyclones in these regions. Together, always with a smile and in good spirits, they traverse the mangroves to revive vast stretches of isolated land.”

Mangroves and Landscape category, Highly Commended.

Ammar Alsayed Ahmed captures a magical moment as dawn fog sweeps over the urban mangroves of Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi.

The UAE’s coastline features 155 square kilometers of mangrove trees, known locally as Qurm. In the past, local communities heavily relied on qurm as a source of food, fuel, and for building ships and houses.

Across the country’s seven emirates, 13 important mangrove sites nestle along the coastline, including Al Hafiya in Khor Kalba, Sharjah, a Ramsar site of international importance.

Mangroves and Underwater category, Highly Commended.

Olivier Clement witnesses the grace of a lemon shark navigating the intricate mangrove maze beneath the Bahamas’ tranquil waters.

"As I waded through the shallow waters, camera in hand, I stumbled upon a breathtaking scene: a lemon shark gracefully gliding through the maze, its sleek form contrasting against the verdant backdrop of the mangroves.

“With every movement, the shark seemed to dance among the roots, a testament to the harmony between predator and habitat. The lemon shark, about a foot long, exuded a sense of tranquillity as it navigated the channels, its presence a reminder of the delicate balance within this thriving ecosystem.

“Capturing this moment was a privilege, a glimpse into the hidden wonders of the natural world and a testament to the importance of preserving such sanctuaries for generations to come."

Mangroves and Landscape category, Highly Commended.

This captivating image illustrates the role of mangrove roots in protecting and stabilizing shorelines. All sorts of diverse marine life are adapted to survive in the coastal habitats.

“Among the intricate roots of the mangroves, a solitary hermit crab stands guard, symbolizing the delicate balance of our coastal ecosystems.”

Mangroves and Underwater category, Highly Commended.

Wyatt Albert calmly captures a youngster appearing out of the darkness

“The security of mangroves in the night allows juvenile lemon sharks to swim under their branches to hide their moonlit shadows from lurking predators.

"Exhibiting dilated pupils along with utilising the maze created by Black mangrove (Avicenna germinans) peg roots, they are able to either capture their prey or evade their larger predators in the darkness."

Mangroves and Landscape category, Runner Up.

Santiago Gibert Isern captures the unique patterns of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve in Quintana Roo in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

During a series of flights to document the reserve’s conservation status at the beginning of the rainy season, the conservation photographer and storyteller noticed the intense colors below.

“I asked the pilot if we could make some circles over the lagoon to capture one of the most characteristic processes of the mangroves, the decomposition of the dead leaves that dye the water with their tannins and at the same time nourish such an important ecosystem. The result was an artistic impression where two powerful colors are combined: green and orange — the first one represents life in all its splendor and the second one the regeneration of life.”

Mangroves and Threats category, Winner.

Dipayan Bose frames a villager standing inside his half-submerged home during a flood.

Due to repeated tropical cyclones and sea level rise in the Bay of Bengal, river embankments have become broken by high tides in coastal villages across the Sundarbans, West Bengal. As a result, homes and farms have flooded, fisheries have become destroyed by seawater, and people have been forced to migrate, victims of climate change.

“This villager has lost all his household belongings in the flood. The cutting down of trees for commercial and domestic use has made the area prone to natural disasters. Storms, heavy rainfall, and floods wreak havoc here. Approximately 3.14mm rise in sea levels every year has taken several islands under the sea. Increased soil erosion and loss of soil quality resulting in reduced crop yield have made situations worse.”

Mangroves and Landscape category, Winner.

In nature's embrace, a sinuous water channel meanders gracefully, flanked by a verdant gallery of mangrove trees lining its edges, in Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi.

“This tranquil scene invites contemplation as the gentle flow of water navigates its course through the heart of the mangrove forest.

“The intertwining roots of the trees form intricate patterns, creating a natural tapestry that harmonises with the fluidity of the water. In this tranquil oasis, the photograph captures the timeless beauty and serenity of a landscape shaped by the delicate dance of water and mangroves.”

Mangroves and Wildlife category, Highly Commended.

Nele Holstegge captures a hippo peeking out of the water of the river Gambie.

“We were driving past the mangroves that line the shores of the river Gambie looking for chimpanzees when I suddenly saw two big eyes peeking out of the water just 2-3 meters away from the boat.

“I was amazed at how inconspicuous an animal of this size could be, as I had never seen one before. I only recognized the fly next to its eye when I was editing the photo afterwards.”

Mangroves and Wildlife category, Runner Up.

“Jayanta transports us into a dreamlike painting with the mudskipper, among the tall colorful grasses.”, says judge Christian Zielger.

Mudskippers are actually a species of fish found in mangroves and mudflats. Spending most of their time out of the water, they’re adapted to remain on land even after the tide has gone out. They mostly breathe by holding water in their mouth and gill chamber, though staying damp also allows them to breathe through their skin.

Their large eyes make them excellent predators while their pectoral fins act as legs, allowing them to crawl over mud and trees along the mangrove floor.

Mangroves and Threats category, Highly Commended.

Star Udyawar highlights how widespread urban development has encroached on mangrove habitats.

“Towering buildings and cleared land serve as a stark contrast against the delicate and biodiverse mangrove forests. The encroachment represents a profound threat to the environment, as these vital coastal habitats are being rapidly diminished by widespread development and clearing.

“Hundreds of hectares of mangroves are cleared to make room for these industries. But that is not the end of the problem. These industries typically release effluents into the nearby ponds on several occasions, creating an impervious physical and toxic oily layer.”

Mangroves and Landscape category, Highly Commended.

Balazs Fodor captures an aerial view of seaweed farms along a mangrove coast in Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia.

“Seaweed farming in Nusa Lembongan has been a significant economic activity for local communities for decades. The shallow, nutrient-rich waters of this small island provide an ideal environment for seaweed cultivation.

“In regions like Nusa Lembongan, where mangrove forests fringe the coastline, integrating seaweed farming with mangrove conservation can yield multiple benefits. Seaweed can only thrive in a healthy environment, so seaweed farmers keep beaches and shorelines clean, thereby further enhancing local biodiversity.”

Young Mangrove Photographer of the Year, Runner Up.

Teja Yantrappalli highlights the vast degradation of mangrove forests in India.

“Each plot, a canvas for cultivation, advised a tale of the symbiosis of soil and water. The land, now occupied by fishing ponds, was once covered with thriving mangroves. If this trend persists, the remaining mangroves in the area may soon vanish.

Mangroves and Threats category, Highly Commended.

On Tung Chung Bay, a pair of adult horseshoe crabs encounter each other.

“The male horseshoe crab tightly grasps onto the back of the female, on a mission of reproduction. They move up the tidal zone with the rising tide, searching for a suitable place to lay their eggs. But when they reach the mangroves, they become entangled in a huge ghost net. If no one rescues them in time, they will eventually die from prolonged exposure.

“This situation is very common in Hong Kong and throughout Asia. Abandoned fishing nets washed ashore become trapped along the high tide line and in mangrove forests, entangling many creatures.

“Horseshoe crabs were once abundant and widespread throughout the waters of Hong Kong, up until the early 1980s. Regarded as ‘living fossils’, they have been around for millions of years and play an important role in our coastal ecology.”

Mangroves and Threats category, Highly Commended.

Kallol Mukherjee captures the pretty yet poisonous colors of the local mangroves and surrounding areas.

“Nearly 55% of the world’s shrimp production comes from captive farms. What is perceived as a harmless activity providing livelihoods to the local people has a huge ecological footprint while also creating conflict among local communities.

“The wastewater from the shrimp farms that are loaded with chemicals, dead shrimp, and faeces is discharged into the mangrove rivers and sea, killing fish and other marine life.”

Mangroves and Threats category, Highly Commended.

Hector Cordero spots a dead black drum in a popular spot in Florida.

It’s one of many victims following heavy flooding, which caused changes in the salinity of the local mangroves that are a prime spot for tourists and boating activities.”