These underwater photos will change the way you see the ocean

An Earth Day celebration wouldn't be complete without a captivating peek into the mysterious depths of our planet's most species-rich yet mysterious ecosystem: the ocean.

From alien-like pelagic squid to spooky mantis shrimp, the winners of the 2015 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Contest do not disappoint.

Photographers from across the globe submitted thousands of breathtaking ocean photographs to this prestigious competition, which was developed and produced by the Underwater Photography Guide.

The organization announced winners of this year's contest on January 6.

Check out our 40 favorites (chosen from the 75 winning photographs) below. They're absolutely stunning.