PALAIOS

Scope & Guideline

Innovating Research at the Intersection of Time

Introduction

Welcome to the PALAIOS 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 PALAIOS, 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
ISSN0883-1351
PublisherSEPM-SOC SEDIMENTARY GEOLOGY
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1986 to 2024
AbbreviationPALAIOS / Palaios
Frequency12 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address6128 EAST 38TH ST, STE 308, TULSA, OK 74135-5814

Aims and Scopes

PALAIOS focuses on the integration of paleontology with sedimentology, taphonomy, and ichnology, aiming to enhance our understanding of past life and environments. The journal promotes research that bridges geological and biological disciplines, emphasizing the significance of fossils in reconstructing ancient ecosystems and their dynamics.
  1. Paleoecology and Environmental Reconstruction:
    Research examining past ecosystems, their composition, dynamics, and environmental conditions through fossil records, with a focus on the interactions between biota and their habitats.
  2. Taphonomy and Fossil Preservation:
    Studies investigating the processes affecting the preservation of biological remains, including chemical and physical factors that influence fossilization and subsequent alterations.
  3. Ichnology and Trace Fossils:
    Exploration of trace fossils and their implications for understanding organism behavior and paleoenvironmental conditions, highlighting the significance of biogenic structures in sedimentary contexts.
  4. Geological and Stratigraphic Context:
    Research integrating paleontological data with geological frameworks to elucidate the stratigraphic relationships and sedimentary processes influencing fossil assemblages.
  5. Experimental and Theoretical Approaches:
    Utilization of experimental methods and theoretical models to understand fossilization processes, sediment dynamics, and paleoecological interactions.
Recent publications in PALAIOS have highlighted a number of emerging themes that reflect the evolving nature of paleontological research. These trends indicate a growing interest in interdisciplinary approaches and the application of innovative methodologies to deepen our understanding of ancient life and environments.
  1. Microbial and Biogeochemical Influences:
    There is an increasing emphasis on the role of microbial processes and biogeochemical cycling in fossilization and sedimentary environments, suggesting a trend towards integrating microbiology with paleontology.
  2. Experimental Taphonomy and Innovative Techniques:
    Research employing experimental approaches to taphonomy, including the use of advanced imaging techniques and chemical analyses, is on the rise, indicating a push towards understanding fossilization processes in greater detail.
  3. Climate Change and Paleoecological Dynamics:
    A growing number of studies focus on the impacts of ancient climate changes on ecosystems and fossil records, reflecting a heightened awareness of the relevance of paleoecological data in contemporary climate discussions.
  4. Interactions Between Biota and Sediment:
    The exploration of biotic interactions with sedimentary processes, including the roles of organisms as ecosystem engineers, is gaining traction, highlighting the interconnectedness of life and geological processes.
  5. Conservation Paleobiology:
    Research addressing the implications of paleontological findings for modern conservation practices is emerging, emphasizing the relevance of historical ecological data in informing current biodiversity and conservation strategies.

Declining or Waning

While PALAIOS continues to explore a wide array of paleontological themes, certain research areas have experienced a decline in focus over recent years, suggesting a shift in scholarly attention or emerging interests that may overshadow these topics.
  1. Classic Paleontological Descriptions:
    Papers focusing solely on the description of new fossil taxa or species without significant ecological or evolutionary context appear to be less frequent, indicating a shift towards studies that integrate broader ecological implications.
  2. Traditional Stratigraphy without Modern Techniques:
    Research relying solely on traditional stratigraphic methods without incorporating modern analytical techniques, such as isotopic analysis or advanced imaging, has seen a decline, reflecting a trend towards more comprehensive and integrative approaches.
  3. Static Models of Paleobiological Interactions:
    Studies presenting static models of ancient ecosystems without considering dynamic interactions or changes over time are becoming less common, as researchers increasingly recognize the importance of temporal variability.

Similar Journals

CARNETS DE GEOLOGIE

Unveiling Earth's Secrets, One Study at a Time
Publisher: CARNETS GEOLOGIEISSN: 1634-0744Frequency:

Carnets de Geologie is a prominent open-access journal dedicated to the dynamic fields of geology, paleontology, and stratigraphy. Published by Carnets Geologie and based in France, the journal has been a platform for scholarly communication since 2002, facilitating unrestricted access to high-quality research. With a robust impact reflected in its 2023 quartile rankings—Q2 in Geology, Paleontology, and Stratigraphy—Carnets de Geologie ranks favorably within Scopus, positioning itself at the 60th percentile for Earth and Planetary Sciences. The journal aims to disseminate innovative research findings and foster academic discourse among researchers, professionals, and students interested in the intricate aspects of Earth's history and processes. Encompassing a broad scope that reflects continuous developments in the geological sciences, Carnets de Geologie is dedicated to advancing knowledge and understanding within its community.

GFF

Exploring the Depths of Geology and Paleontology.
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1103-5897Frequency: 4 issues/year

GFF is a prestigious academic journal dedicated to advancing research in the fields of Geology and Paleontology. Published by Taylor & Francis Ltd in the United Kingdom, GFF serves as a vital platform for disseminating innovative findings and fostering discussions among researchers, professionals, and students alike. With a noteworthy impact factor reflecting its significance in the scientific community, GFF has achieved Q2 ranking in both Geology and Paleontology, underscoring its commitment to high-quality scholarship. The journal has been operational since 1872, accumulating a rich history of contributing to our understanding of earth sciences. It currently ranks #133 out of 321 in Earth and Planetary Sciences - Geology, and #50 out of 113 in Paleontology according to Scopus rankings. Although it does not offer an open access option, GFF remains accessible through various academic databases, ensuring that cutting-edge research reaches a wide audience. Its comprehensive scope aims to explore critical advancements in geological and paleontological sciences, making it an essential resource for those committed to exploring the intricacies of our planet’s past and present.

Swiss Journal of Palaeontology

Bridging Science and History in Paleontology
Publisher: SPRINGER INT PUBL AGISSN: 1664-2376Frequency: 1 issue/year

Swiss Journal of Palaeontology, published by SPRINGER INT PUBL AG, stands as a leading platform for innovative research within the field of paleontology, contributing significantly to the understanding of Earth's historical life forms and their evolutionary pathways. With its ISSN 1664-2376 and E-ISSN 1664-2384, this journal has established a strong presence in academic circles, recognized as a Q1 journal in the category of Paleontology for 2023. Moreover, it ranks 20th out of 113 in the Earth and Planetary Sciences, securing an impressive 82nd percentile on Scopus, underscoring its influence and reach in the scientific community. The journal publishes cutting-edge research findings, theoretical advancements, and comprehensive reviews that span the globe, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students in the paleontological sciences. For those interested in contributing to and learning from the latest discoveries, the Swiss Journal of Palaeontology promises to be an invaluable addition to your academic library.

PalZ

Connecting the Dots of Ancient Life
Publisher: SPRINGER HEIDELBERGISSN: 0031-0220Frequency: 4 issues/year

PalZ is a prestigious academic journal in the field of Paleontology, published by Springer Heidelberg in Germany. With a long-standing history that traces back to its converged years from 1914 to 2024, this journal offers invaluable insights into the evolutionary dynamics and ecological relationships of past life forms. Holding a commendable impact factor and ranked in the Q2 category of Paleontology, it consistently showcases high-quality research that resonates within the scientific community, evidenced by its Scopus rank of #38 out of 113 in Earth and Planetary Sciences. PalZ is committed to open access, ensuring that its rich repository of scholarly articles is readily accessible for researchers, professionals, and students alike. By engaging with the journal, readers will encounter cutting-edge studies that are pivotal for advancing our understanding of paleobiology and the historical patterns of biodiversity.

BULLETIN OF GEOSCIENCES

Connecting Research to Global Geological Challenges
Publisher: CZECH GEOLOGICAL SURVEYISSN: 1214-1119Frequency: 4 issues/year

BULLETIN OF GEOSCIENCES, published by the prestigious Czech Geological Survey, stands as a pivotal resource in the fields of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Environmental Science. Since its inception in 2003, the journal has been committed to advancing knowledge through high-quality research, currently holding a commendable Q2 ranking in both disciplines. With its focus on diverse and innovative topics, BULLETIN OF GEOSCIENCES provides an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to disseminate and access impactful studies. The journal is indexed in Scopus, ranking #78/195 in General Earth and Planetary Sciences and #110/233 in General Environmental Science, reflecting its significant contribution to academia. Publishing from Prague, Czech Republic, this journal invites contributions that illuminate the interactions between geological processes and environmental phenomena, ensuring an inclusive and accessible approach to crucial global issues.

Journal of Palaeogeography-English

Where Earth’s Stories Come to Life
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCIENCE INCISSN: 2095-3836Frequency: 1 issue/year

The Journal of Palaeogeography-English, published by Elsevier Science Inc, is a leading peer-reviewed open access journal that has been an essential resource for researchers since its establishment in 2012. With its focus on Earth-Surface Processes, Geography, Planning, Development, and Paleontology, the journal has secured a premier position in the academic community, recently achieving Q1 category rankings in multiple fields. The journal's current impact is reflected in its Scopus rankings, placing it in the top percentile of its categories, such as rank #12 in Paleontology and #39 in Earth-Surface Processes. With open access options, it facilitates wide dissemination and engagement with high-quality research, making significant contributions to our understanding of geographical and paleontological phenomena. As the journal converges towards 2024, it aims to continue fostering innovative research and interdisciplinary dialogue that will stimulate advancements in our knowledge of Earth’s past and present environments, appealing to a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students alike.

NORWEGIAN JOURNAL OF GEOLOGY

Shaping the Future of Geology Through Collaboration.
Publisher: GEOLOGICAL SOC NORWAYISSN: 2387-5844Frequency: 4 issues/year

NORWEGIAN JOURNAL OF GEOLOGY, published by the Geological Society of Norway, stands as a vital resource in the fields of geology, geochemistry, petrology, geophysics, oceanography, and paleontology. Since its transition to an Open Access model in 2015, this journal has significantly expanded its reach, allowing for greater dissemination of cutting-edge research and insights. With an ISSN of 2387-5844 and E-ISSN of 2387-5852, the journal is committed to fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among the scientific community. The journal's categorization in the Q3 quartile across various Earth and Planetary Sciences fields underscores its status as a reputable publication, offering researchers, professionals, and students alike a platform to share their findings and advancements in geology. Continuing through its converged years from 2015 to 2024, the NORWEGIAN JOURNAL OF GEOLOGY plays a crucial role in enhancing our understanding of Earth's processes and materials, making it an important reference for anyone engaged in geoscientific research.

ALCHERINGA

Advancing Understanding in Biological and Geological Sciences
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0311-5518Frequency: 4 issues/year

ALCHERINGA, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a distinguished academic journal that has been at the forefront of research in the fields of ecology, evolution, behavior, systematics, and paleontology since its inception in 1975. With an ISSN of 0311-5518 and E-ISSN 1752-0754, this journal serves as a critical platform for the dissemination of high-quality research, contributing significantly to the understanding of biological and geological sciences. Ranking in the Q3 quartile for both Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, as well as Paleontology, ALCHERINGA is well-positioned within the academic community, attracting submissions from researchers across the globe. The journal's Scopus ranks further highlight its relevance, particularly its position in the 51st percentile for Ecology and the 50th percentile for Paleontology. Although it does not operate under an open access model, ALCHERINGA remains committed to providing valuable insights and fostering discussions that are essential for the advancement of these vital scientific disciplines. Researchers, professionals, and students are encouraged to explore the profound implications of the studies published within, making it an indispensable resource for anyone aiming to deepen their expertise in these fields.

ANNALES SOCIETATIS GEOLOGORUM POLONIAE

Connecting Researchers to the Heart of Geological Science.
Publisher: POLISH GEOLOGICAL SOCISSN: 0208-9068Frequency: 4 issues/year

ANNALES SOCIETATIS GEOLOGORUM POLONIAE is a distinguished journal published by the Polish Geological Society, focusing on pivotal research in the fields of geology, economic geology, and stratigraphy. With an ISSN of 0208-9068, this journal has established itself as an essential platform for disseminating significant findings and advancements in geological sciences since its convergence in 2008. The journal proudly holds a Q2 quartile ranking in the categories of Economic Geology, Geology, and Stratigraphy as of 2023, indicating its respectable position within the global academic community. Researchers will find its indexed status in Scopus, ranking #138/321 in Geology and showcasing a solid presence in key geological sub-disciplines. While the journal is not open access, it remains a vital resource for professionals and students striving for insight into contemporary geological research. Located in Krakow, Poland, the journal continues to contribute significantly to the understanding of geological processes and resources, making it an indispensable reference for anyone in the field.

LETHAIA

Connecting Paleontology with Ecological Perspectives
Publisher: SCANDINAVIAN UNIV PRESS-UNIVERSITETSFORLAGET ASISSN: 0024-1164Frequency: 4 issues/year

LETHAIA, an esteemed journal published by Scandinavian University Press - Universitetsforlaget AS, serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of innovative research in the fields of paleontology as well as ecology, evolution, behavior, and systematics. Established in 1968 and continuing its impactful journey until 2024, LETHAIA has consistently contributed to advancing scientific understanding of Earth's biological and geological history. With a 2023 impact factor placing it in the Q2 category for both Paleontology and Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, the journal is recognized for its high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that engage and challenge the academic community. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find LETHAIA to be an indispensable resource for the latest findings, methodologies, and theoretical advancements in these interlinked disciplines.