AMERICAN NATURALIST

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Knowledge in Natural Sciences

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of AMERICAN NATURALIST with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0003-0147
PublisherUNIV CHICAGO PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1946 to 1948, from 1960 to 1961, from 1973 to 1975, from 1978 to 1979, from 1981 to 2024
AbbreviationAM NAT / Am. Nat.
Frequency12 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1427 E 60TH ST, CHICAGO, IL 60637-2954

Aims and Scopes

The American Naturalist focuses on the integration of evolutionary biology and ecological research, emphasizing the interplay between organisms and their environments. The journal aims to publish significant contributions that enhance our understanding of natural systems through a variety of methodologies and theoretical frameworks.
  1. Evolutionary Ecology:
    Research that investigates the interactions between evolutionary processes and ecological dynamics, including traits, behaviors, and environmental adaptations.
  2. Ecological Interactions:
    Studies focused on the complex relationships among species, including competition, predation, mutualism, and their impacts on community structure.
  3. Adaptation and Phenotypic Variation:
    Exploration of how organisms adapt to their environments through phenotypic plasticity and genetic changes, often in response to ecological pressures.
  4. Biodiversity and Conservation:
    Investigation into patterns of biodiversity, the effects of habitat changes, and the implications for conservation strategies.
  5. Population Dynamics:
    Research examining the factors that influence population size, structure, and distribution, integrating both ecological and evolutionary perspectives.
  6. Theoretical and Mathematical Models:
    Development and application of models to understand complex ecological and evolutionary processes and predict future trends.
Recent publications in The American Naturalist highlight several emerging trends and themes that reflect the evolving interests of the scientific community. These trends suggest a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and the application of innovative methodologies.
  1. Climate Change Impacts:
    An increasing number of studies are addressing the effects of climate change on species interactions, population dynamics, and ecosystem functions, underscoring the urgency of understanding ecological responses to global change.
  2. Microbial Ecology and Evolution:
    There is a growing focus on the role of microbiomes in ecological interactions and evolutionary processes, highlighting the significance of microbial communities in shaping host traits and ecosystem dynamics.
  3. Genomic and Molecular Approaches:
    Research utilizing genomic tools to explore evolutionary questions is on the rise, reflecting advancements in technology and a broader interest in understanding the genetic basis of adaptation.
  4. Social Behavior and Network Dynamics:
    Emerging themes in the study of social structures and behaviors among species, particularly in social insects and vertebrates, are gaining traction, emphasizing the role of sociality in ecological and evolutionary contexts.
  5. Eco-Evolutionary Dynamics:
    An increased emphasis on the interactions between ecological and evolutionary processes over time is evident, with studies exploring feedback loops and their implications for biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

Declining or Waning

Over recent years, certain research themes within The American Naturalist have shown a decrease in prominence. These trends indicate shifts in focus within the journal, potentially reflecting broader changes in the scientific landscape or emerging interests among researchers.
  1. Traditional Behavior Studies:
    Research centered on established behavioral studies without integrating evolutionary or ecological frameworks has become less frequent, as there is a growing preference for interdisciplinary approaches that connect behavior with ecological and evolutionary contexts.
  2. Descriptive Ecology:
    Papers that primarily describe ecological phenomena without deeper analytical or theoretical insights have declined, as the journal increasingly favors studies that provide mechanistic explanations.
  3. Single-Species Focus:
    Research focusing solely on individual species without consideration of broader ecological interactions is waning, reflecting a trend towards more holistic studies that examine community dynamics.
  4. Static Models of Ecosystems:
    The use of static, non-dynamic models to depict ecological interactions has decreased, with a shift towards more complex, dynamic modeling that accounts for temporal changes and interactions.

Similar Journals

ZOOLOGICA SCRIPTA

Elevating the discourse in animal science and systematics.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0300-3256Frequency: 6 issues/year

Zoologica Scripta, published by Wiley, stands as a distinguished journal within the fields of Animal Science and Zoology, Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, Genetics, and Molecular Biology. With its inception dating back to 1971 and a convergence year extending to 2024, this journal consistently provides a platform for high-quality research, earning a Q1 ranking in two key categories and solid performance in additional fields, as evidenced by its significant Scopus rankings and impressive percentiles. Notably, it ranks 36 out of 490 journals in Animal Science and Zoology, placing it in the 92nd percentile. While Zoologica Scripta operates under a traditional access model, its rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the most impactful studies make their way into its pages. With a focus on advancing our understanding of biodiversity and evolutionary processes, this journal is indispensable for researchers, professionals, and students committed to the ongoing exploration of animal sciences and ecological studies.

Annual Review of Entomology

Exploring the Intricacies of Insect Life
Publisher: ANNUAL REVIEWSISSN: 0066-4170Frequency: 1 issue/year

Annual Review of Entomology, published by Annual Reviews, is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the understanding of entomology through comprehensive review articles from leaders in the field. With a focus on Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics and Insect Science, the journal ranks in the top quartile (Q1) as of 2023, reflecting its significant impact and relevance in these disciplines. Based in the United States, the Annual Review of Entomology has been a trusted resource since its inception, providing critical insights that inform research, policy, and education in entomology. Researchers and professionals will find valuable reviews that synthesize current knowledge and highlight future directions in insect research. The journal's impressive standing, as indicated by its rankings—first in both Agricultural and Biological Sciences categories—emphasizes its pivotal role in shaping scientific discourse and innovation.

Ecosphere

Innovating research to illuminate ecological interactions.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 2150-8925Frequency: 12 issues/year

Ecosphere is a leading open-access journal published by WILEY, dedicated to advancing research in the fields of ecology, evolution, behavior, and systematics. Established in 2010 and headquartered in the United States, this innovative journal provides a platform for the exchange of cutting-edge scientific knowledge and discovery, fulfilling its mission to enhance our understanding of ecological systems and their interactions. With a prestigious impact factor reflecting its commitment to high-quality research, Ecosphere is ranked Q1 in both Ecology and Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics for 2023, further solidifying its prominence in the scientific community. The journal's scope includes a wide array of topics related to environmental science, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to stay at the forefront of ecological research. It offers comprehensive open access options, ensuring that groundbreaking findings are readily available to a global audience, thus fostering collaboration and innovation in the field.

JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL SYSTEMATICS AND EVOLUTIONARY RESEARCH

Connecting the Dots of Animal Science and Evolution
Publisher: WILEY-HINDAWIISSN: 0947-5745Frequency: 1 issue/year

The Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, published by Wiley-Hindawi, stands as a premier academic journal since its establishment, showcasing cutting-edge research in the fields of Animal Science, Zoology, and Ecology. With an impressive track record spanning from 1963 to the present, this journal has earned a Q1 classification in both Animal Science and Ecology, as well as recognized rankings in Genetics and Molecular Biology. Its impact is highlighted by its Scopus ranks, placing it in the top percentile for relevant categories, underscoring its vital role in advancing knowledge and understanding within these disciplines. Researchers, professionals, and students will find a wealth of high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that contribute to the evolutionary understanding of biodiversity and systematics. Though not an Open Access journal, it remains accessible to a wide audience committed to exploring the intricacies of zoology and evolutionary biology.

ECOLOGY LETTERS

Advancing ecological knowledge, one letter at a time.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1461-023XFrequency: 12 issues/year

ECOLOGY LETTERS, published by Wiley, is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the field of ecology and related disciplines. Renowned for its rigorous peer-review process and impactful research contributions, the journal boasts an impressive Scopus Rank of #13 out of 721 in the category of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, positioning it in the 98th percentile globally. With a Q1 rating in the 2023 quartile rankings for Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, it serves as an essential platform for ecologists and evolutionary biologists to disseminate cutting-edge research findings from 1998 to 2024. Although not an open-access journal, ECOLOGY LETTERS actively contributes to the global ecology discourse, making it a critical resource for researchers, professionals, and students dedicated to understanding complex ecological interactions and evolutionary processes.

ANNALES ZOOLOGICI

Advancing Knowledge in Zoological Sciences
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.

AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Pioneering Insights into Animal Behavior and Systematics
Publisher: CSIRO PUBLISHINGISSN: 0004-959XFrequency: 6 issues/year

Australian Journal of Zoology, published by CSIRO PUBLISHING, serves as a premier platform for research in the fields of animal science and zoology, with a profound commitment to advancing our understanding of wildlife and ecosystems. Featuring an ISSN of 0004-959X and an E-ISSN of 1446-5698, this esteemed journal encompasses a wide range of topics relevant to ecology, evolution, behavior, and systematics. For the year 2023, it holds a commendable Q2 ranking in both Animal Science and Zoology and Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics, demonstrating its significant impact within the academic community. With a rich publication history spanning from 1952 to 2024, the journal caters to researchers, professionals, and students by disseminating crucial findings and methodologies that contribute to effective conservation efforts and informed ecological practices. Although not an open access journal, it continues to foster collaboration and discussion among scholars in Australia and beyond. Located in Clayton, Victoria, the journal remains dedicated to its objective of enhancing knowledge in zoological sciences and addressing vital environmental challenges.

Journal of Systematics and Evolution

Leading the Charge in Systematics and Evolution
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1674-4918Frequency: 6 issues/year

The Journal of Systematics and Evolution, published by WILEY, is a premier academic journal dedicated to advancing the fields of Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics and Plant Science. With a distinguished Q1 ranking in both of these critical categories in 2023, it stands at the forefront of scientific research, placing it in the top quartile among its peers. Featuring both an ISSN of 1674-4918 and an E-ISSN of 1759-6831, the journal has been converging innovative research since its inception in 2008. The journal caters to a global audience of researchers, professionals, and students, providing a platform for disseminating significant findings and fostering academic dialogue. Its impressive Scopus rankings further affirm its impact, coming in at Rank #62/721 in Ecology and Rank #48/516 in Plant Science, highlighting its relevance and influence in these vibrant fields. As an open-access journal, it ensures that groundbreaking research is accessible to all, thus enhancing collaborative opportunities within the scientific community.

RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF THERIOLOGY

Fostering Insights into Evolution and Behavior
Publisher: KMK SCIENTIFIC PRESS LTD, MOSCOW STATE UNIVISSN: 1682-3559Frequency: 2 issues/year

RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF THERIOLOGY is a prominent academic journal published by KMK SCIENTIFIC PRESS LTD in collaboration with the esteemed Moscow State University. As a dedicated platform for researchers in the fields of Animal Science and Zoology, Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, and Plant Science, this journal strives to advance our understanding of terrestrial ecosystems and their inhabitants. Although it currently holds a Q4 ranking and ranks within the lower percentiles of its respective categories, the journal's consistent publishing output since 2011 showcases a commitment to facilitating scientific discourse and collaboration. Addressed to a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students, RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF THERIOLOGY serves as an essential resource for disseminating valuable insights and fostering future advancements in the biological sciences.

RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF HERPETOLOGY

Innovating Knowledge in Animal Science and Ecology
Publisher: FOLIUM PUBL COISSN: 1026-2296Frequency: 4 issues/year

RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF HERPETOLOGY is a prominent scholarly publication dedicated to the field of herpetology, focusing on the study of reptiles and amphibians. Published by FOLIUM PUBL CO in the Russian Federation, this journal aims to foster the exchange of knowledge and research in animal science, ecology, evolution, and behavior. With its ISSN 1026-2296 and a significant commitment to high-quality academic discourse, the journal maintains a respectable standing within the Q3 quartile in both Animal Science and Zoology, as well as in Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics. This attributes to its Scopus rank among leading journals in related fields, enhancing its visibility and influence. Spanning from 2014 through 2024, it publishes rigorous research that explores the diversity, biology, and conservation of herpetofauna, making it a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike who are invested in the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of these species.