<p>A micrograph, or microphotograph, of a <a href="http://ocean.nationalgeographic.com/ocean/photos/sea-urchins/">sea urchin</a>'s crystalline tooth won first place and people's choice for photography in the <a href="http://www.sciencemag.org/site/special/vis2012/">2012 International Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge</a>.</p><p>Colors applied with Photoshop reveal the interlocking crystals that form the choppers of <em>Arbacia punctulata</em>. The biomineral crystals, captured by biophysicists from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, grow and intertwine to reinforce and sharpen a sea urchin's teeth. Made of calcite, which is also found in limestone and seashells, the crystals are tough enough to grind holes in rocks to create shelters.</p><p>"These winners continue to amaze me every year," said Monica M. Bradford, executive editor of the journal <a href="http://www.sciencemag.org/"><em>Science</em></a>, in a statement. "The visuals are not only novel and captivating, but they also draw you into the complex field of science in a simple and understandable way."</p><p>Sponsored by <em>Science</em> and the <a href="http://www.nsf.gov/">National Science Foundation (NSF)</a>, the international competition honors recipients who use visual media to promote understanding of scientific research. Judging criteria included visual impact, effective communication, freshness, and originality. (<a href="http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2012/02/pictures/120202-best-science-pictures-2011-scivis-visualization-illustration-photography/#/best-science-pictures-2012-layered-solid_48133_600x450.jpg">See some of the 2011 winners</a>.)</p><p>—<em>Lacey Gray and Katia Andreassi</em></p>