Ecological Complexity

Scope & Guideline

Bridging the gap between ecology and environmental science.

Introduction

Welcome to the Ecological Complexity 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 Ecological Complexity, 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.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1476-945x
PublisherELSEVIER
Support Open AccessNo
CountryNetherlands
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2004 to 2024
AbbreviationECOL COMPLEX / Ecol. Complex.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressRADARWEG 29, 1043 NX AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Aims and Scopes

The journal "Ecological Complexity" focuses on the intricate interactions within ecological systems, employing diverse methodologies to understand and model these complexities. The journal aims to bridge theoretical frameworks with empirical observations, providing insights into ecological processes and their implications for management and conservation.
  1. Ecological Modeling and Simulation:
    The journal emphasizes the development and application of mathematical and computational models to simulate ecological phenomena. This includes individual-based models, agent-based models, and dynamical systems modeling that help predict species interactions and ecosystem dynamics.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    Research published in the journal often integrates concepts from ecology, biology, mathematics, and social sciences. This interdisciplinary focus allows for a more holistic understanding of complex ecological systems and their responses to environmental change.
  3. Network Theory in Ecology:
    A significant aspect of the journal's scope is the application of network theory to ecological interactions, such as predator-prey dynamics, species dispersal, and ecosystem services. This approach aids in understanding the connectivity and resilience of ecological networks.
  4. Impact of Environmental Change:
    The journal explores the effects of climate change, habitat fragmentation, and anthropogenic influences on ecological systems. Studies often assess the resilience and adaptability of ecosystems in the face of such changes.
  5. Complexity and Biocomplexity:
    Theoretical discussions on the nature of complexity in ecological systems are a core area of interest, with papers exploring the philosophical and historical aspects of ecological complexity and its implications for conservation and management.
Recent publications in "Ecological Complexity" highlight emerging themes that reflect the current trends and future directions in ecological research. These themes are increasingly relevant in understanding the complexities of ecological systems and their management.
  1. Climate Change and Ecosystem Responses:
    An increasing number of studies are focusing on how climate change impacts species distributions, ecosystem services, and overall ecological resilience. This theme is crucial as it helps in developing strategies for conservation and management in a rapidly changing environment.
  2. Agent-Based and Individual-Based Modeling:
    There is a growing trend in using agent-based and individual-based models to simulate ecological interactions and behaviors. These models provide insights into how individual behaviors can affect population dynamics and ecosystem processes, highlighting the importance of fine-scale interactions.
  3. Social-Ecological Systems:
    Research on the integration of social and ecological systems is gaining traction. This trend reflects the recognition that human activities and ecological processes are interconnected, necessitating an integrated approach to understanding and managing ecosystems.
  4. Network Dynamics in Ecosystems:
    Emerging studies are increasingly applying network theory to analyze complex interactions among species and their environments. This approach helps elucidate the implications of connectivity and interaction patterns for ecosystem stability and resilience.
  5. Eco-Epidemiology and Disease Dynamics:
    The intersection of ecology and epidemiology is becoming a significant area of focus, particularly in the context of wildlife diseases and their impacts on populations and ecosystems. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective wildlife management and conservation strategies.

Declining or Waning

As ecological research evolves, certain themes within "Ecological Complexity" have shown a decline in prominence. This waning interest may reflect shifts in research priorities, funding opportunities, or emerging methodologies that overshadow previously popular topics.
  1. Traditional Species-Centric Studies:
    There is a noticeable decline in studies focusing solely on single species interactions without considering broader ecological contexts. As the field moves toward more integrative approaches, research that does not incorporate multi-species interactions or ecosystem-level analyses is becoming less frequent.
  2. Static Ecological Models:
    Static models that do not account for dynamic changes in ecosystems or the influence of external variables are being phased out in favor of more dynamic and adaptable modeling approaches. The trend is shifting towards models that incorporate temporal and spatial variability.
  3. Descriptive Studies Without Quantitative Analysis:
    There has been a reduction in purely descriptive ecological research that lacks quantitative or computational analysis. The journal now favors studies that provide rigorous quantitative assessments, which are essential for robust ecological insights.
  4. Localized Case Studies:
    Research that focuses exclusively on localized ecological phenomena without considering broader implications or connections to global ecological processes is becoming less common. The journal is increasingly prioritizing studies that offer insights into larger ecological networks and interactions.

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