AFRICAN INVERTEBRATES

Scope & Guideline

Connecting Researchers to Africa's Ecological Riches

Introduction

Welcome to the AFRICAN INVERTEBRATES information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of AFRICAN INVERTEBRATES, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageMulti-Language
ISSN1681-5556
PublisherCOUNCIL NATAL MUSEUM
Support Open AccessYes
CountrySouth Africa
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2008 to 2024
AbbreviationAFR INVERTEBR / Afr. Invertebr.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPRIVATE BAG 9070, PIETERMARITZBURG, KWAZULU-NATAL 00000, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'African Invertebrates' is dedicated to the study and documentation of invertebrate diversity, taxonomy, and ecology across the African continent. It emphasizes the importance of both traditional morphological methods and modern molecular techniques in understanding the rich invertebrate fauna of Africa.
  1. Taxonomy and Systematics:
    Focuses on the identification, classification, and description of new species across various invertebrate groups, such as insects, arachnids, and nematodes.
  2. Biodiversity and Conservation:
    Addresses the biodiversity of invertebrate species, exploring their ecological roles and the implications of conservation efforts in different African ecosystems.
  3. Morphological and Molecular Techniques:
    Utilizes a combination of morphological assessments and molecular techniques, including DNA barcoding, to uncover species diversity and relationships among taxa.
  4. Ecological Studies:
    Investigates the ecological interactions and habitats of invertebrates, contributing to a better understanding of ecosystem dynamics and health in African environments.
  5. Historical and Collection-Based Research:
    Highlights the importance of historical collections and previous research efforts in expanding our knowledge of African invertebrate diversity.
The journal 'African Invertebrates' has shown a dynamic evolution in its research themes, with several emerging topics gaining traction in recent years. These trends reflect the growing importance of specific areas of study within the field of invertebrate research in Africa.
  1. DNA Barcoding and Molecular Phylogenetics:
    An increasing number of studies are employing molecular techniques, particularly DNA barcoding, to elucidate species diversity and phylogenetic relationships, emphasizing the integration of molecular data in taxonomy.
  2. Description of New Species:
    There is a notable surge in the publication of new species descriptions, indicating a rich and largely unexplored invertebrate diversity in Africa, particularly among Diptera and Hymenoptera.
  3. Focus on Endemic Species:
    Research highlighting endemic invertebrate species and their conservation status is on the rise, reflecting a growing awareness of biodiversity hotspots and the need for targeted conservation efforts.
  4. Ecological Impact Studies:
    Emerging studies are increasingly linking invertebrate diversity with ecological health and ecosystem services, underscoring the crucial roles these organisms play in their environments.
  5. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    There is a trend towards interdisciplinary research that combines entomology with other scientific fields such as ecology, conservation biology, and environmental science, enhancing the relevance and impact of invertebrate studies.

Declining or Waning

While the journal continues to thrive in various areas, certain themes have seen a decline in focus over recent years, indicating a shift in research priorities and interests within the field of invertebrate studies in Africa.
  1. General Surveys without New Findings:
    The trend of publishing broad surveys or checklists without significant new taxonomic contributions appears to be waning, as researchers increasingly aim to provide novel insights or descriptions.
  2. Non-Species Specific Research:
    Papers that focus on broader ecological or environmental assessments without specific invertebrate taxa are becoming less common, suggesting a shift towards more targeted research on specific groups.
  3. Historical Collection Reviews:
    While historical reviews remain valuable, the frequency of papers solely dedicated to reviewing past collection efforts or specimens has decreased, as the emphasis now leans towards contemporary fieldwork and new discoveries.

Similar Journals

BELGIAN JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Innovating Research in Animal Biology and Ecology.
Publisher: ROYAL BELGIAN ZOOLOGICAL SOCISSN: 0777-6276Frequency: 2 issues/year

The BELGIAN JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY, published by the Royal Belgian Zoological Society, serves as a prominent platform for advancing research in the field of zoology. With an impact factor reflecting its status within the academic community, this journal rigorously publishes innovative studies and reviews, covering a broad spectrum of topics related to animal science and zoology. As an esteemed outlet, the journal ranks in the Q2 category for both Animal Science and Zoology, demonstrating its relevance and contribution to the field, as indicated by its Scopus ranking of 255 out of 490. Although it operates under a subscription model, the journal is committed to disseminating high-quality research that can shape contemporary understanding of animal biology and ecology. With a publication history dating back to 1990 and extending through 2024, researchers, professionals, and students are encouraged to engage with its rich content, which is vital for ongoing discourse and discovery within zoological sciences.

AFRICAN ZOOLOGY

Exploring Africa's Rich Biodiversity
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1562-7020Frequency: 4 issues/year

AFRICAN ZOOLOGY, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a significant journal in the realm of Animal Science and Zoology, with a proud history dating back to 1996 and slated to continue until 2024. With an ISSN of 1562-7020 and E-ISSN 2224-073X, this journal provides a reputable platform for researchers and practitioners dedicated to the study of animal biology across the African continent. It has been recognized for its quality scholarship, evidenced by its Q3 categorization in the 2023 Scopus quartile rankings and an impressive rank of #182 out of 490 within its field. As an open-access journal, it facilitates the dissemination of vital research findings and promotes broader accessibility, catering to a diverse audience of professionals, scholars, and students alike. The journal aims to enhance our understanding of wildlife, conservation, and ecosystem dynamics in Africa, fostering collaborations that address critical ecological challenges. For researchers and enthusiasts keen on contributing to and staying informed about advancements in zoological science, AFRICAN ZOOLOGY is an essential resource that enriches the global discourse on biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Journal of Insect Biodiversity

Pioneering Research in the Fascinating Realm of Insects
Publisher: MAGNOLIA PRESSISSN: 2538-1318Frequency: 1 issue/year

Journal of Insect Biodiversity, published by MAGNOLIA PRESS in New Zealand, offers a vital platform for researchers and professionals interested in the intricate world of insect science. Established in 2019, this journal covers a wide array of topics within its field, focusing on the ecological, evolutionary, and behavioral aspects of insects, while also engaging with paleontological perspectives. With an impressive Q2 and Q3 categorization in multiple ecological disciplines and a growing influence in the Scopus rankings, it serves as an essential resource for scholars aiming to deepen their understanding of insect diversity and its implications for ecosystems. The journal is committed to open access, promoting the dissemination of knowledge without barriers. Researchers, students, and professionals alike will benefit from the timely contributions this journal offers as it continues to reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of insect research up to the year 2024.

STUDIES ON NEOTROPICAL FAUNA AND ENVIRONMENT

Exploring the Richness of Neotropical Biodiversity
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0165-0521Frequency: 3 issues/year

STUDIES ON NEOTROPICAL FAUNA AND ENVIRONMENT is a distinguished academic journal published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, dedicated to advancing the fields of Animal Science, Zoology, and Ecology. With an ISSN of 0165-0521 and an E-ISSN of 1744-5140, this journal has been a significant outlet for scholarly research since its inception in 1976, continuing to provide critical insights into neotropical biodiversity and the environmental intricacies of this rich ecological region through 2024. Recognized in the Q3 category for both Animal Science and Ecology, the journal ranks at #232/490 in Animal Science and Zoology and #402/721 in Ecology, marking it as a valuable resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in ecological and zoological studies. By offering a platform for innovative research and comprehensive reviews, the journal aims to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, facilitating a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and conservation strategies relevant to neotropical ecosystems. Although not an open-access journal, it plays a crucial role in fostering academic discourse and knowledge dissemination in its field, ensuring that critical advancements in understanding neotropical fauna and environmental dynamics reach a diverse and engaged audience.

BOTHALIA

Bridging knowledge gaps in ecological research.
Publisher: SOUTH AFRICAN NATL BIODIVERSITY INST-SANBIISSN: 0006-8241Frequency: 1 issue/year

BOTHALIA is a prominent open-access journal dedicated to advancing the fields of Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics, as well as Plant Science. Published by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), this journal has been disseminating valuable research since 1978 and has embraced open access since 2014 to enhance the visibility and accessibility of scientific knowledge. With an ISSN of 0006-8241 and E-ISSN of 2311-9284, BOTHALIA plays a pivotal role in promoting biodiversity research in South Africa and beyond. In the recent Scopus rankings, it has been positioned at Q4 in both relevant categories, highlighting its contributions within the broader scientific community, despite being in its growing phase amidst competitive rankings. The journal aims to publish high-quality articles that address critical issues in biodiversity and ecological sciences, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students committed to understanding and managing our planet's biological heritage.

ANNALES ZOOLOGICI

Pioneering Discoveries in Zoological Research
Publisher: MUSEUM & INST ZOOLOGY PAS-POLISH ACAD SCIENCESISSN: 0003-4541Frequency: 4 issues/year

ANNALES ZOOLOGICI is a distinguished academic journal published by the Museum & Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, based in Warsaw, Poland. With a long-standing tradition in zoological research, this journal has evolved to encompass a diverse range of studies in ecology, evolution, behavior, and systematics, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of animal biology and conservation. It holds a commendable Q2 classification in the 2023 Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics category, indicating its significant contribution to the field. Although ANNALES ZOOLOGICI is not an open-access publication, it remains accessible to a global audience of researchers, professionals, and students aiming to advance their knowledge and engage with cutting-edge zoological findings. As of 2024, this journal continues to be a vital resource for those eager to explore the complexities of animal life and contribute to ongoing discussions within this essential scientific discipline.

FUNGAL DIVERSITY

Illuminating the Complexities of Fungal Life
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 1560-2745Frequency: 6 issues/year

Fungal Diversity is a premier academic journal dedicated to advancing the science of mycology, encompassing ecological, evolutionary, and biological research involving fungi. Published by Springer, this journal has established a significant presence in the academic community since its inception in 1998, and it continues to thrive with a convergence period extending to 2024. Holding a prestigious Q1 ranking in several categories — including Ecology, Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, and Plant Science — Fungal Diversity showcases cutting-edge research that influences ecological management, conservation, and biodiversity studies. With its notable positions in Scopus rankings, including being ranked #1 in Environmental Science - Ecology, the journal serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the complex interplay between fungi and their environments. Although it does not currently offer open access, interested readers can benefit from the journal's rich repository of peer-reviewed articles, making Fungal Diversity a vital component of the scientific literature landscape.

FRAGMENTA ENTOMOLOGICA

Connecting research and practice in entomology.
Publisher: UNIV DEGLI STUDI DI ROMA LA SAPIENZAISSN: 0429-288XFrequency: 2 issues/year

FRAGMENTA ENTOMOLOGICA is a prominent peer-reviewed academic journal published by UNIV DEGLI STUDI DI ROMA LA SAPIENZA, focusing on various dimensions of entomology and insect science. With an ISSN of 0429-288X and an E-ISSN of 2284-4880, this journal has embraced an Open Access model since 2006, ensuring that valuable research is widely accessible to the global scientific community. Based in Italy, at the DIPARTIMENTO DI BIOLOGIA ANIMALE E DELL'UOMO in Rome, FRAGMENTA ENTOMOLOGICA is recognized for its commitment to high-quality research, ranking in the Q3 category across multiple categories, including Ecology and Insect Science, in 2023. Its Scopus rankings further underscore its relevance, showcasing its role in advancing knowledge in the fields of Ecology, Evolution, and Insect Behavior. This journal serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the intricate world of insects and their ecological roles, fostering academic discourse that bridges theoretical and practical entomological studies.

Zoologia

Unlocking the Secrets of Biodiversity
Publisher: SOC BRASILEIRA ZOOLOGIA, UNIV FEDERAL PARANAISSN: 1984-4689Frequency: 4 issues/year

Zoologia, published by the SOC BRASILEIRA ZOOLOGIA and UNIV FEDERAL PARANA, is a premier open-access journal dedicated to the field of zoology and related disciplines. Established in 2009 and based in Brazil, this journal has quickly positioned itself as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students, providing a platform for innovative research and comprehensive reviews in animal science and zoology. With an H-index indicative of its growing citation impact and a current Scopus ranking placing it in the 46th percentile of its category, Zoologia focuses on increasing the visibility and accessibility of cutting-edge zoological research. The journal aims to advance the understanding of animal biology, ecology, and conservation, making it an essential read for those invested in animal science. As an open-access publication, it ensures that knowledge dissemination is unrestricted, fostering a collaborative scientific community striving towards impactful conservation and biodiversity initiatives.

ORGANISMS DIVERSITY & EVOLUTION

Advancing Knowledge: The Intersection of Ecology and Evolution
Publisher: SPRINGER HEIDELBERGISSN: 1439-6092Frequency: 4 issues/year

Organisms Diversity & Evolution is a premier academic journal published by Springer Heidelberg, dedicated to advancing the fields of ecology, evolution, behavior, and systematics. Established in 2001 and continuing through 2024, this journal plays a crucial role in disseminating high-quality research that explores the complexities of biological diversity and evolutionary processes. With a commendable 2023 Scopus ranking of #253/721 in its category, placing it in the 64th percentile, and categorized in the Q2 quartile for Ecology and Evolution, it consistently attracts contributions from leading scientists and researchers worldwide. Although it operates on a subscription basis, the journal's rigorous peer-review process and dedication to impactful scientific discourse make it an invaluable resource for academics, practitioners, and students keen on understanding the intricate relationships that shape our biodiversity. By highlighting innovative research and fostering discussions on urgent ecological challenges, Organisms Diversity & Evolution serves as a vital platform for those committed to conservation and evolutionary biology.