A striking macro photograph of slime mould by Jon Appleyard has taken the top spot in the competition, run by BBC Wildlife in partnership with the Guyana Tourism Authority.
The competition was launched in 2024 by BBC Wildlife. This year, the judges were the magazine’s editorial team and independent wildlife photographer Andy Parkinson, who called the photograph a “work of art.” He also noted Appleyard’s exceptional dedication and technical ability.
“Slime moulds are incredible little organisms, yet we can crush them underfoot without even realising they exist,” says Parkinson.
“This image opens a window onto an extraordinary, miniature world that most of us will never see, and reminds us that life exists in many different forms. You cannot question any ethics here, nor ask if the photo was staged. All you can do is marvel at the expertise.”
Although slime moulds look a lot like fungi, and were once classified as such, they aren’t related to mushrooms at all.
The term ‘slime mould’ refers to a variety of small to microscopic organisms that belong to many different groups, from Rhizaria to Amoebozoa. These organisms are not only fascinating photography subjects: despite having no nervous system, some species have demonstrated a primitive form of learning.
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- Slime moulds: other-worldly photos of the puzzle-solvers without a brain
The winner of the competition secured an eight-night trip for one person to Guyana, courtesy of the Guyana Tourism Authority. They will be able to experience the country’s wild beauty – taking in the thundering Kaieteur Falls, the iconic Iwokrama Canopy Walkway, the historic capital city Georgetown, rainforest hikes, as well as birdwatching along the Demerara River.
The winners of the other four categories – Portraits, Behaviour, Camera Phone, and Environment – will each receive a £50 voucher for Love2shop.
See the category winners here and the shortlist here.
Top image: Overall winner, extreme close-up of mould by Jon Appleyard.
