For a second season, Troy University is competing against other universities across the state in the 2026 Marble Bowl, a statewide iNaturalist competition where Alabama universities face off in a biodiversity challenge.
From September 5 through November 29, Team TROY is calling on students, faculty, alumni and nature enthusiasts across Alabama to help capture the state’s incredible biodiversity and bring home the win.
Last season, TROY came in second place with a score of 82.9, beating out The University of South Alabama, the University of Alabama, Jacksonville State University and more.
“The Marble Bowl is a great way for students and community members to get familiar with the amazing biodiversity that Alabama has to offer,” said Fisher Parrish, a graduate student in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. “It is also a great way to compete and support Troy University versus all the other colleges within the state. Last year we were able to place second out of all the universities competing, and with everyone’s help we definitely have a chance to win it all this year!”
Hosted through the iNaturalist platform, the Marble Bowl is a friendly competition where participants record wildlife observations throughout the state. By snapping photos of wild plants, animals, fungi and other organisms and uploading them to iNaturalist, participants help their university score points with unique species and unique observations. Half of a university’s score is made up of the number of observations while the other half accounts for the number of species identified.
Note: only wild organisms count—no captive animals or cultivated plants—and photos must be taken between September 5 and November 29.
“This is more than a competition,” said Dr. Alvin Diamond, biology professor and director of the Arboretum. “It’s a chance to discover Alabama’s biodiversity, engage in citizen science and showcase Trojan pride.”
Consisting of 75 acres of native habitats, over seven miles of walking trails, more than 500 identified plant species and a pond system, TROY’s arboretum is the perfect place to get started.
“We have an incredible opportunity not only to compete, but also to deepen our appreciation for the natural world right here in our own backyard,” Diamond said. “The arboretum is a perfect starting point for anyone wanting to contribute, whether you’re making your very first observation or you’re already an experienced naturalist. It’s a living classroom where people can see firsthand the rich variety of plants, animals and fungi that call Alabama home.”
Anyone can join Team TROY, no biology degree required. To participate, download the free iNaturalist app or sign up at inaturalist.org/signup. Search for the project, Marble Bowl 2026 – Troy University, then join and begin making observations.
