Ecological Complexity

Scope & Guideline

Unraveling the threads of ecological interactions.

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.

Similar Journals

Neotropical Biology and Conservation

Advancing Knowledge for a Sustainable Neotropics
Publisher: PENSOFT PUBLISHERSISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Neotropical Biology and Conservation, published by Pensoft Publishers, serves as a pivotal platform for researchers and professionals dedicated to the understanding and preservation of biodiversity in the Neotropical region. This Open Access journal, operational since 2006 and based in Brazil, invites contributions that delve into the complexities of ecology, evolution, and conservation strategies pertinent to the diverse ecosystems of South and Central America. With a commendable 2023 impact factor reflected in its Q3 rankings across multiple categories including Animal Science, Ecology, and Plant Science, it stands as a valuable resource for academics seeking to publish innovative findings and foster dialogue in these critical areas of study. The journal's commitment to open access ensures that knowledge is readily available to anyone interested in advancing the field of neotropical biology and conservation. Join the global conversation and contribute to the vital work of preserving our planet’s rich biological heritage through rigorous research published in this esteemed journal.

Theoretical Ecology

Advancing ecological insights through rigorous modeling.
Publisher: SPRINGER HEIDELBERGISSN: 1874-1738Frequency: 4 issues/year

Theoretical Ecology, published by SPRINGER HEIDELBERG, is a premier journal in the field of ecological modeling and theory, exemplifying the intersection of rigorous quantitative analysis and ecological understanding. With its ISSN 1874-1738 and E-ISSN 1874-1746, this journal has been a valuable resource for researchers since its inception in 2008, with a commitment to publish cutting-edge research until 2024. The journal's 2023 category quartiles demonstrate its impact, ranking Q3 in Ecological Modeling and Q2 in Ecology, reflecting its significance within the academic community. Furthermore, its Scopus rankings position it among the top tier of environmental science journals, ranking #181/461 in Ecology and #21/41 in Ecological Modeling. While the journal does not offer open access, it is an essential publication for those looking to deepen their understanding of theoretical frameworks that drive ecological research and practice. By providing a platform for innovative theories and models, Theoretical Ecology plays a crucial role in shaping future ecological studies and informing policy decisions in environmental management.

Annual Review of Ecology Evolution and Systematics

Fostering Understanding of Nature's Complex Systems
Publisher: ANNUAL REVIEWSISSN: 1543-592XFrequency: 1 issue/year

The Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics, published by Annual Reviews, is a leading academic journal dedicated to advancing the understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes. With a commendable impact factor and impressive rankings—9th in both the Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics category and the Environmental Science category—this journal is recognized for its rigorous peer-reviewed articles that synthesize research findings across a wide range of topics within the fields of ecology and evolutionary biology. Established in 2003, this annual publication aims to provide researchers, professionals, and students with comprehensive insights into the latest developments and trends within these dynamic disciplines. By facilitating access to high-quality scholarly articles, the Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics continues to play a crucial role in fostering scientific discourse and discovery.

FOLIA GEOBOTANICA

Pioneering research at the intersection of plants and paleontology.
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 1211-9520Frequency: 4 issues/year

FOLIA GEOBOTANICA, published by Springer, is a distinguished journal dedicated to advancing the fields of Paleontology and Plant Science through the dissemination of high-quality research. With an ISSN of 1211-9520 and an E-ISSN of 1874-9348, this journal has been pivotal in providing a platform for innovative studies from 1994 to 2024. Notably, FOLIA GEOBOTANICA holds a Q3 ranking in Paleontology and a Q2 ranking in Plant Science as of 2023, affirming its relevance and contribution to the scholarly community. The journal is located in the Netherlands at VAN GODEWIJCKSTRAAT 30, 3311 GZ DORDRECHT, and is not an Open Access publication, ensuring comprehensive review processes and scholarly integrity. With Scopus rankings that place it in the 50th percentile for Plant Science and 46th for Paleontology, FOLIA GEOBOTANICA continues to attract researchers, professionals, and students who are keen to explore the intricacies of plant ecology and fossil records, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of ecological and evolutionary patterns.

ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS

Shaping ecological policies through rigorous scholarship.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1051-0761Frequency: 8 issues/year

ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS, published by WILEY, is a leading journal in the field of ecology, providing a platform for innovative research that addresses the understanding and management of ecological systems. With an ISSN of 1051-0761 and E-ISSN of 1939-5582, it has established itself as a vital resource for ecologists and environmental scientists since its inception in 1991. Ranked in the top quartile (Q1) for Ecology in 2023 and with a Scopus ranking of 40 out of 461 in Environmental Science, ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS boasts an impressive impact factor, attesting to its significance and influence in the field. The journal's mission is to publish peer-reviewed articles that contribute to ecological theory and its applications in conservation and environmental management. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find invaluable insights and the latest developments in ecological research through its comprehensive scope and rigorous scholarship, ensuring a crucial role in shaping future ecological practices and policies.

NeoBiota

Illuminating the path to ecological understanding and action.
Publisher: PENSOFT PUBLISHERSISSN: 1619-0033Frequency: 12 issues/year

NeoBiota, published by Pensoft Publishers in Bulgaria, is a preeminent Open Access journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in biodiversity, ecology, and conservation science. Since its inception in 2011, it has established itself as a pivotal platform for scholarly discourse, maintaining an impressive impact factor that places it in the Q1 quartile across multiple categories, including Animal Science and Zoology, Aquatic Science, and Ecology. With its articles indexed in leading databases and Scopus rankings that affirm its standing (e.g., rank #12 in Animal Science and Zoology), NeoBiota serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students. The journal emphasizes the synthesis of ecological modeling and evolutionary processes, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting rigorous research methodologies. Authors are encouraged to contribute their insights on biodiversity metrics, ecosystem dynamics, and the ecological implications of anthropogenic changes, making NeoBiota essential for anyone invested in the future of our planet's ecosystems. Discover the treasures of ecological scholarship through this influential journal.

BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS

Connecting science and conservation against invasive threats.
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 1387-3547Frequency: 12 issues/year

BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS, published by Springer, stands at the forefront of ecological research, providing a vital platform for studies related to invasive species and their impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics. With an impressive impact factor reflecting its high-quality contributions, this esteemed journal has established itself in the Q1 category in both Ecology and Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, highlighting its significance within these fields. The journal is indexed in the renowned Scopus database, ranking 113th out of 721 in Agricultural and Biological Sciences, and 82nd out of 461 in Environmental Science, affirming its importance and reach among ecological research. Since its inception in 1999, BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS has published cutting-edge research, fostering a deeper understanding of the dynamics of species invasions and their ecological consequences. While it does not currently offer Open Access, researchers, professionals, and students will find invaluable insights and the latest advancements in biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and invasion biology within its pages. This journal serves as an essential resource for those committed to addressing the challenges posed by biological invasions, making it a cornerstone in ecological literature.

POPULATION ECOLOGY

Exploring the intricate dynamics of species and ecosystems.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1438-3896Frequency: 3 issues/year

Population Ecology is a leading journal dedicated to the advancement of research in the field of ecology, evolution, and behavior, published by the esteemed Wiley in Japan. With an impact factor indicative of its academic significance and ranked Q2 in the 2023 Ecology category, this journal serves as a pivotal resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, facilitating the dissemination of high-quality research and innovative discussions. Covering diverse aspects of ecological dynamics, population processes, and their evolutionary implications, Population Ecology fosters a deeper understanding of species interactions and environmental factors shaping ecosystems. Available in both print and online formats (E-ISSN 1438-390X), the journal is committed to open access to enhance public engagement and accessibility to crucial scientific findings, ultimately contributing to informed decision-making regarding biodiversity and conservation efforts. With a robust ranking of #235 out of 721 in Agricultural and Biological Sciences, it is poised to remain at the forefront of ecological research through 2024 and beyond.

JOURNAL OF TROPICAL ECOLOGY

Empowering Insights into Tropical Ecosystem Dynamics
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 0266-4674Frequency: 6 issues/year

The JOURNAL OF TROPICAL ECOLOGY, published by Cambridge University Press, serves as a pivotal platform for advancing knowledge in the field of ecology, particularly within tropical environments. With an ISSN of 0266-4674 and an E-ISSN of 1469-7831, this esteemed journal has been a key resource since its inception in 1985, maintaining a focus on empirical research that addresses the complexities of tropical ecosystems. It holds a respectable Q3 ranking in the Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics category as of 2023, indicating its significant contribution to the field, although it remains within the competitive mid-range. The journal publishes original research, reviews, and methodological articles that illuminate the rich biodiversity and unique ecological processes of tropical regions, fostering a deeper understanding of conservation challenges. Accessible from the United Kingdom, this publication appeals to a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students keen on exploring ecological dynamics in tropical settings, and plays a crucial role in promoting scientific discourse and collaborative efforts aimed at preserving our planet's vital ecosystems.

ACTA OECOLOGICA-INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY

Illuminating Pathways to Sustainable Solutions
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 1146-609XFrequency: 6 issues/year

ACTA OECOLOGICA-INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, published by Elsevier, stands as a prominent platform for disseminating innovative research in the diverse field of ecology. Operating since 1983 and continuing to make significant contributions into 2024, this journal features critical studies that advance our understanding of ecological systems, behaviors, and conservation efforts. With an impressive Q2 ranking in both the ecology and nature conservation categories, it exemplifies high-quality scholarship, reflected in its Scopus rankings—#74 in Environmental Science and #254 in Agricultural and Biological Sciences. Researchers, professionals, and students in the field are invited to explore the latest findings and methodologies that address pivotal ecological issues. As a journal committed to fostering academic collaboration, ACTA OECOLOGICA is essential for anyone dedicated to enhancing their comprehension of ecological dynamics and advancing sustainability practices globally.