Title: Nikon’s Small World Photomicrography Competition Unveils Hidden Beauty in Microscopic World The annual Nikon Small World photomicrography competition has once again showcased the mesmerizing beauty of the microscopic world, capturing images that are both familiar and strange. Started in 1975, this prestigious contest celebrates the artistry and skill required to capture stunning visuals through a light microscope. This year’s top prize was awarded to Chinese photographer Zhang You for his image of a rice weevil perched on a grain of rice. The rice weevil is known as a pest that buries its eggs inside grains of rice, with the larva consuming the grain while it develops. In an interview, You revealed that he had never seen a rice weevil with its wings spread before and this particular specimen was naturally preserved on a windowsill in what may have been a final attempt to escape. Using focus stacking techniques, You captured over 100 images at different focal points and layered them together for an image that showcased greater depth of field. The second place went to Jan Rosenboom from Germany with his stunning photograph of an algae colony in a drop of water. The third position was claimed by John-Oliver Dum, also from Germany, whose picture depicted pollen caught within the intricate web of a garden spider. Other notable entries included images that revealed the translucent body of a pregnant water flea and a close-up view of a tiny creature trapped in a spider’s web. The significance of this competition lies not only in its ability to reveal hidden beauty but also in encouraging scientists, artists, and photographers alike to explore the microscopic world around us. By doing so, we gain valuable insights into our environment and can better understand how these tiny organisms interact with each other and their surroundings. In conclusion, Nikon’s Small World photomicrography competition continues to push boundaries by showcasing breathtaking images of the microscopic world that often goes unnoticed. These stunning visuals not only inspire awe but also foster curiosity about our natural environment, reminding us of the importance of preserving and protecting it for future generations.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.nbcnews.com/science/science-news/nikon-small-world-microscope-photo-contest-2025-rice-weevil-eggs-rcna237990)
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