The New Discovery Award captures the fundamental truth about the power of observation, notes Xu Xing, head of the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

"A clear ecological photograph holds entirely different meanings for different people," Xu says.

"Some may simply see a bird, while a birder might realize that this bird shouldn't be here. A professional taxonomist, however, could potentially uncover a clue pointing to a completely new species. Thus, the spirit of 'discovery' is perhaps an open perspective — resisting quick conclusions, never overlooking the unusual, and persistently questioning," he elaborates.

"This is precisely the idea the New Discovery Award aims to convey," he adds.

Xu calls upon the public to record the world with the focus and curiosity of a scientist in this era of unprecedented visual abundance.

"Your lens can capture not only beauty but also truth, questions, and moments that may reshape our understanding," he emphasizes.

The most forward-looking investment of the competition is in younger generations. In partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute China, an affiliate of the Jane Goodall Institute Global, the competition launched a youth award, attracting 1,254 teenage submitters.

The category aims to give teenagers the tools to see nature and speak for it, according to Li.

"It reflects our anticipation and confidence in the growth and participation of young people," Li says.

Chen Ruizhe, an official from the youth empowerment program Roots & Shoots, points out that the winning entry captivates the audience with its remarkable variety, from insects and birds to wolves and blue sheep, from mudskippers along the shore to weasels in the pasture, each frame revealing a world of wonder.