Honorable Mention: Rhizopus Revelation

Photography by Sakshi Kumari Pandit, undergraduate student,
Charles E. Schmidt College of Science

This image offers a close-up view of a Rhizopus sporangia, a pivotal fungal reproductive structure commonly found in diverse ecosystems. Captured in my biodiversity lab, the photograph showcases the vibrant colors that accentuate the sporangia's intricate details, which often go unnoticed by the naked eye. To add a touch of artistry, a subtle grainy filter was applied, emphasizing the microscopic linework within the image. Additionally, enhanced saturation was used to create a sharper and more vivid representation. With four color variants, this image not only celebrates the captivating beauty of this microscopic world but also underscores the diversity inherent in the natural sciences.