JOURNAL OF NATURAL HISTORY

Scope & Guideline

Unraveling Nature's Complexities

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of JOURNAL OF NATURAL HISTORY with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageMulti-Language
ISSN0022-2933
PublisherTAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1967 to 2024
AbbreviationJ NAT HIST / J. Nat. Hist.
Frequency24 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OR14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Natural History focuses on the comprehensive exploration of biodiversity, taxonomy, and ecology, with a strong emphasis on the study of various organisms and their interactions within ecosystems. It serves as a platform for researchers to publish findings that contribute to the understanding of natural history across multiple taxa.
  1. Biodiversity Assessment and Taxonomy:
    The journal emphasizes the documentation and classification of species, including the description of new species and taxonomic revisions, which is critical for understanding global biodiversity.
  2. Ecological Interactions and Behavior:
    Research on ecological interactions, including predator-prey dynamics, mutualism, and behavior of various species is a core focus, contributing to the understanding of ecosystem functioning.
  3. Phylogenetics and Evolutionary Studies:
    Studies exploring phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary processes among species are prevalent, helping to unravel the history of life on Earth.
  4. Conservation Biology:
    The journal publishes work that addresses conservation issues, including species at risk, habitat preservation, and the impact of environmental changes on biodiversity.
  5. Field Studies and Ecological Surveys:
    Empirical research based on field studies that document species distributions, behaviors, and ecological dynamics is a significant focus, providing data crucial for conservation efforts.
The Journal of Natural History is currently witnessing several emerging trends that reflect the evolving landscape of biodiversity research. These trends indicate a shift towards more integrative and interdisciplinary approaches to studying natural history.
  1. Integrative Taxonomy:
    An increasing number of studies are adopting integrative approaches that combine morphological, molecular, and ecological data to provide a more comprehensive understanding of species diversity and relationships.
  2. Molecular and Genetic Studies:
    The utilization of molecular techniques, including DNA barcoding and genomic studies, is on the rise, facilitating deeper insights into phylogenetics, population genetics, and conservation genetics.
  3. Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity:
    Research focusing on the effects of climate change on species distributions, behaviors, and ecosystem dynamics is gaining traction, highlighting the urgent need to understand and mitigate biodiversity loss.
  4. Urban Ecology and Biodiversity:
    There is an emerging interest in urban ecology, examining how biodiversity interacts with urban environments, which has implications for conservation strategies in increasingly urbanized landscapes.
  5. Conservation Genetics and Management:
    Papers addressing conservation genetics and the practical management of threatened species are becoming more prominent, reflecting a growing concern for biodiversity preservation in the face of global change.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Natural History continues to thrive in many areas, there are certain themes that appear to be declining in prominence based on recent publications. This shift may reflect changing research priorities or emerging interests in other aspects of natural history.
  1. Traditional Taxonomic Studies:
    There seems to be a waning focus on purely traditional taxonomic studies without an integrative approach. Many researchers are now employing molecular techniques alongside morphological studies, reducing the frequency of standalone taxonomic papers.
  2. General Natural History Narratives:
    Papers that provide broad, non-specific accounts of species or ecosystems without a strong empirical basis or hypothesis are appearing less frequently, as the journal shifts towards more rigorous scientific methodologies.
  3. Historical Natural History Studies:
    Research focusing solely on historical perspectives or anecdotal accounts of natural history is becoming less common, with a greater emphasis now placed on contemporary ecological and evolutionary studies.

Similar Journals

NORTHEASTERN NATURALIST

Championing the Study of Life's Complex Interactions
Publisher: EAGLE HILL INSTISSN: 1092-6194Frequency: 4 issues/year

NORTHEASTERN NATURALIST is a prominent academic journal published by the Eagle Hill Institute, focusing on the intricate field of ecology, evolution, behavior, and systematics. With an ISSN of 1092-6194 and an E-ISSN of 1938-5307, this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students who are keen on contributing to or expanding their knowledge of natural history in the Northeastern United States. Although currently not designated as Open Access, it maintains a significant academic influence, evidenced by its ranking as Q4 in the 2023 Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics category, and a Scopus rank of #586 out of 721 within its field, placing it in the 18th percentile. Spanning from 1999 to 2024, the journal aims to disseminate high-quality research that not only enhances scientific understanding but also promotes the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Researchers are encouraged to submit their original studies, reviews, and methodologies that highlight ecological interactions and evolutionary processes, making NORTHEASTERN NATURALIST an essential resource for those dedicated to the science of life.

PERSOONIA

Illuminating the Path of Ecological Discovery
Publisher: RIJKSHERBARIUMISSN: 0031-5850Frequency: 2 issues/year

PERSOONIA, a distinguished journal published by RIJKSHERBARIUM, serves as a pivotal platform for the dissemination of high-quality research in the fields of Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics, as well as Plant Science. Established with a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, PERSOONIA has achieved an impressive Q1 ranking in these areas, highlighting its significant impact within the academic community, as evidenced by its ranking of #12 out of 721 journals in its field, placing it in the top 2% of publications. With a publication history that spans from 1996 to present, the journal regularly features innovative studies that push the boundaries of understanding in ecological and botanical sciences. While Open Access options are currently limited, researchers and professionals alike benefit from subscription access to this vital resource. Located in the Netherlands, PERSOONIA continues to be a beacon for scholars aiming to enrich the discourse in evolving ecological and plant science disciplines.

TAIWANIA

Exploring the intersection of ecology, evolution, and systematics.
Publisher: NATL TAIWAN UNIV PRESSISSN: 0372-333XFrequency: 4 issues/year

TAIWANIA is a prestigious and long-standing journal dedicated to the fields of ecology, evolution, and systematics, published by NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY PRESS. Since its inception in 1947, this open-access journal has provided a vital platform for researchers to disseminate their findings, encouraging collaboration and innovation in the ecological sciences. With a 2023 impact factor placing it in Quartile 2 for Ecology and Quartile 3 for Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, TAIWANIA is recognized for its quality and influence, ranking #267 out of 461 in Environmental Science and #426 out of 721 in Agricultural and Biological Sciences within Scopus. The journal currently publishes contributions from both local and international researchers, showcasing a diverse array of topics that address crucial ecological issues and facilitate the advancement of knowledge in the discipline. For those seeking rigorous research, engaging reviews, and a commitment to open access, TAIWANIA remains a significant resource for the global scientific community.

Ecology and Evolution

Unlocking the secrets of nature's intricate web.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 2045-7758Frequency: 12 issues/year

Ecology and Evolution is a leading open-access journal published by WILEY, dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of ecology, evolution, and behavior. Since its inception in 2011, the journal has established itself as a critical platform, garnering a significant impact factor and maintaining a prestigious Q1 ranking in multiple categories, including Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, and Nature and Landscape Conservation as of 2023. With its continuous commitment to high-quality research, Ecology and Evolution provides a vital conduit for dissemination among researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal's open-access model ensures that groundbreaking findings are accessible to a global audience, fostering collaboration and innovation across various ecological and evolutionary disciplines. The editorial team invites submissions that explore the intricate relationships between organisms and their environments, aiming to inspire future research that addresses pressing environmental challenges. The journal's rigorous peer-review process guarantees the integrity and quality of published work, reinforcing its position as a frontrunner in its field.

TROPICAL ZOOLOGY

Deepening our understanding of tropical ecosystems.
Publisher: PAGEPRESS PUBLISSN: 0394-6975Frequency: 4 issues/year

TROPICAL ZOOLOGY is a prestigious academic journal dedicated to advancing knowledge and research in the fields of animal science, zoology, and ecology. Published by PAGEPRESS PUBL, this journal has been an integral part of the scientific community since its inception in 1988, providing a platform for the dissemination of innovative research and discoveries related to tropical wildlife and ecosystems. With an impact factor placing it in the Q3 category for both Animal Science and Zoology, as well as Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics, it ranks among the noteworthy publications in these fields. Researchers, professionals, and students will find that TROPICAL ZOOLOGY is an essential resource for the latest findings, fostering a deeper understanding of biodiversity and conservation in tropical environments. The journal is based in the United Kingdom, with additional administrative support from MEDIGROUP in Italy, ensuring a broad international perspective and reach. While it does not operate under an open access model, it remains committed to high-quality peer-reviewed content that contributes significantly to the understanding of tropical ecosystems and the species that inhabit them.

RECORDS OF THE AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM

Bridging Past and Present through Scholarly Exploration
Publisher: AUSTRALIAN MUSEUMISSN: 0067-1975Frequency: 7 issues/year

Records of the Australian Museum is a leading journal in the fields of Animal Science, Ecology, History, and Museology, published by the renowned Australian Museum in Sydney, Australia. With a commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding of natural history and cultural heritage, this journal provides an essential platform for original research, reviews, and significant findings relevant to its diverse academic audience. The journal encompasses a broad scope, including studies in ecology, evolution, behavior, systematics, and the history of science, attracting contributions from leading scholars and professionals. Notably, it ranks highly in various categories, achieving a Q1 ranking in History and Museology, reflecting its impact and prestige within the academic community. Although it operates under a traditional access model, the journal ensures that its robust compilation of cutting-edge research remains vital to researchers, professionals, and students aiming to stay informed of the latest developments in their fields. With converging years of publication since 1983, Records of the Australian Museum continues to play a pivotal role in disseminating critical insights and fostering discussions that shape our understanding of both the natural world and our cultural heritage.

ZOOLOGICAL STUDIES

Illuminating the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Publisher: BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH CENTER, ACAD SINICAISSN: 1021-5506Frequency: 1 issue/year

Zoological Studies, published by the Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, stands as a pivotal journal in the fields of animal science and zoology. With the ISSN 1021-5506 and E-ISSN 1810-522X, this Taiwanese journal features a blend of pioneering research that spans over three decades, from 1994 to 2024, fostering a deep understanding of biodiversity and zoological phenomena. Recognized for its scholarly contributions, Zoological Studies holds an esteemed Q2 ranking in Animal Science and Zoology for 2023, positioning it among the top-tier journals in its category with a Scopus rank of #164 out of 490—reflecting its strong impact and outreach. While currently not open access, the journal aims to disseminate essential findings and discussions that advance ecological knowledge and inspire future research endeavors. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find this journal an invaluable resource for accessing critical studies that drive innovation and conservation efforts in the field of zoology.

BIOTA NEOTROPICA

Empowering Research for Conservation and Understanding
Publisher: REVISTA BIOTA NEOTROPICAISSN: 1676-0603Frequency: 1 issue/year

BIOTA NEOTROPICA is a prominent open access journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in the interdisciplinary field of ecology, evolution, behavior, and systematics. Published by REVISTA BIOTA NEOTROPICA since 2001, this Brazilian journal aims to provide a platform for high-quality research that fosters a deeper understanding of Neotropical biodiversity and its conservation. With an ISSN of 1676-0603 and an E-ISSN of 1676-0611, the journal has established its reputation within academic circles, ranking in the Q3 quartile for Ecology and achieving a respectable percentile of 57 in Scopus’s metrics. Operating from its headquarters in Campinas, SP, Brazil, BIOTA NEOTROPICA not only focuses on research dissemination but also encourages collaboration and exchange of ideas among scientists, students, and professionals in the field. The journal is particularly valuable for those looking to contribute to the understanding of ecological systems and promotes accessibility with its open access model.

NOVITATES CARIBAEA

Unveiling the Secrets of Caribbean Ecosystems
Publisher: MUSEO NACIONAL HISTORIA NATURAL-SANTO DOMINGOISSN: 2071-9841Frequency: 2 issues/year

NOVITATES CARIBAEA is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to the exploration of Caribbean natural history, fostering a deep understanding of the region's biodiversity and ecological significance. Published by the MUSEO NACIONAL HISTORIA NATURAL-SANTO DOMINGO, this open-access journal has been a platform for scholarly communication since 2009, aiming to provide unrestricted access to high-quality research outputs. With its commitment to promoting research in Caribbean ecosystems, NOVITATES CARIBAEA plays a crucial role in the academic community, facilitating knowledge exchange among researchers, professionals, and students. The journal welcomes submissions exploring various aspects of natural history, including taxonomy, conservation biology, and ecological studies, making it an essential resource for those dedicated to understanding and preserving the unique environments of the Caribbean.

AFRICAN INVERTEBRATES

Fostering Innovation in Invertebrate Science
Publisher: COUNCIL NATAL MUSEUMISSN: 1681-5556Frequency: 2 issues/year

AFRICAN INVERTEBRATES is a distinguished open-access academic journal published by the COUNCIL NATAL MUSEUM, specializing in the study of invertebrate biology within the vibrant ecosystems of Africa. Operating since 2006, this journal has established itself as a vital resource in the fields of Animal Science, Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, Insect Science, and Paleontology, earning a strong Q2 ranking in these categories as of 2023. With its ISSN 1681-5556 and E-ISSN 2305-2562, the journal provides unrestricted access to cutting-edge research, fostering collaboration among global researchers and professionals. AFRICAN INVERTEBRATES serves not only as a platform for high-quality scholarly articles but also aims to enhance the understanding of Africa's unique invertebrate fauna and the ecological challenges they face. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, the journal is pivotal for those looking to contribute to the discourse surrounding African biodiversity and conservation strategies.