PALAIOS

Scope & Guideline

Bridging Paleontology and Sedimentary Science

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

ACTA PALAEONTOLOGICA POLONICA

Unlocking the Secrets of Evolutionary Biology
Publisher: INST PALEOBIOLOGII PANISSN: 0567-7920Frequency: 4 issues/year

ACTA PALAEONTOLOGICA POLONICA is a leading scholarly journal in the field of paleontology, published by the Institute of Paleobiology, Polish Academy of Sciences. With its open access model established since 1956, the journal ensures that vital research related to Earth's history and the evolution of life is freely accessible to a global audience. Based in Warsaw, Poland, this journal has garnered a respectable impact within the academic community, currently positioned in the Q2 quartile of its field and ranking #47 out of 113 in Scopus for Earth and Planetary Sciences, reflecting its significance in advancing paleontological research. Covering a wide range of topics related to fossil studies and evolutionary biology, ACTA PALAEONTOLOGICA POLONICA serves as a crucial platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike, encouraging the dissemination of innovative ideas and discussions that contribute to our understanding of past life on Earth. As it continues to publish high-quality articles through to 2024 and beyond, this journal remains integral to the ongoing discourse in paleontological sciences.

BULLETIN OF GEOSCIENCES

Exploring the Dynamics of Our Planet, One Study at a Time
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.

ICHNOS-AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PLANT AND ANIMAL TRACES

Unveiling the Past: Tracing Life Through Time
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS INCISSN: 1042-0940Frequency: 4 issues/year

ICHNOS: An International Journal for Plant and Animal Traces is a premier scholarly journal published by Taylor & Francis Inc, focusing on the intricate field of paleontology. With an ISSN of 1042-0940 and an E-ISSN of 1563-5236, this journal serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of high-quality research centered on the traces left by plants and animals throughout geological history. Established in 1990 and with a convergence period extending to 2024, ICHNOS holds a Q3 category ranking in Paleontology according to the 2023 quartiles, positioning it within the 48th percentile of its Scopus-rank peer group. Although it does not currently offer Open Access options, the journal remains a valuable resource for researchers and professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of trace fossils and their implications for paleoecological studies. By contributing critical insights into the evolutionary chronicle of life on Earth, ICHNOS plays an essential role in advancing the dialogue within the earth and planetary sciences community.

RIVISTA ITALIANA DI PALEONTOLOGIA E STRATIGRAFIA

Pioneering Research in Paleontology and Stratigraphy
Publisher: UNIV STUDI MILANOISSN: 0035-6883Frequency: 3 issues/year

RIVISTA ITALIANA DI PALEONTOLOGIA E STRATIGRAFIA, published by Università degli Studi di Milano, is a leading open access journal dedicated to the fields of Paleontology, Geology, and Stratigraphy. Established in 1979, this prestigious journal fosters the dissemination of high-quality research and innovative studies within these disciplines, holding a commendable Q2 ranking in Geology, Paleontology, and Stratigraphy as of 2023. The journal’s commitment to accessibility since 2016 underlines its objective to promote the sharing of knowledge among researchers, professionals, and students alike. With its notable Scopus rankings reflecting a solid performance in the Earth and Planetary Sciences, particularly in Paleontology and Stratigraphy, RIVISTA ITALIANA serves as a vital resource for those seeking to stay informed on the latest advancements and discoveries within the geological sciences. For further inquiries, the editorial office is located at C/O RIVISTA ITALIANA PALEONTOLOGIA STRATIGRAFIA, VIA MANGIAGALLI, 34, 20133 MILANO, ITALY.

CARNETS DE GEOLOGIE

Connecting Researchers to the Heart of Earth Sciences
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.

ACTA GEOLOGICA POLONICA

Advancing geological knowledge for a sustainable future.
Publisher: POLSKA AKAD NAUK, POLISH ACAD SCIENCES, UNIV WARSAW, GEOLOGY DEPTISSN: 0001-5709Frequency: 4 issues/year

ACTA GEOLOGICA POLONICA is a distinguished journal published by the Polska Akademia Nauk, in collaboration with the University of Warsaw's Geology Department. Since its inception, it has served as a vital platform for disseminating innovative research in the field of Geology, reflecting a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in Earth and planetary sciences. With an ISSN of 0001-5709 and an E-ISSN of 2300-1887, this journal provides a rigorous review process and is classified in the Q3 quartile for Geology as of 2023, indicating its growing influence in the discipline. Despite not being open access, the journal facilitates meaningful contributions that span a range of geological topics from fundamental research to applied sciences, thereby enriching the academic landscape. Researchers, professionals, and students alike are encouraged to engage with the valuable findings and discussions contained within its pages, which continue to shape the future of geological inquiry.

PALEONTOLOGICAL JOURNAL

Advancing Knowledge of Life's Evolution.
Publisher: PLEIADES PUBLISHING INCISSN: 0031-0301Frequency: 12 issues/year

The PALEONTOLOGICAL JOURNAL, published by PLEIADES PUBLISHING INC, is a premier platform for the dissemination of research in the field of paleontology. With an ISSN of 0031-0301 and E-ISSN 1555-6174, this journal serves the academic community by providing insights into fossil studies, evolutionary biology, and the historical narrative of life on Earth. Despite being categorized in the Q3 quartile for 2023 and currently holding a Scopus rank of #84 out of 113 in the Earth and Planetary Sciences- Paleontology category, it remains a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners. The journal's coverage spans from 1990 to 2024, offering a comprehensive historical perspective while also addressing contemporary issues in paleological research. Scholars and students alike benefit from its rigorous peer-reviewed articles and the opportunity to access vital knowledge in the ever-evolving field of paleontology.

Gondwana Research

Transforming Geological Knowledge for Future Generations
Publisher: ELSEVIERISSN: 1342-937XFrequency: 12 issues/year

Gondwana Research is a premier academic journal published by Elsevier, specializing in the field of geology, with a robust focus on the geological history and processes of the Gondwana supercontinent. With an impressive impact factor and ranking as Q1 in the 2023 Geology category, it stands as a leading platform for disseminating high-quality research. The journal features articles that advance the understanding of Earth and planetary sciences, making significant contributions to geological education and research. Researchers will find its curated content particularly valuable, as it encompasses a wide array of topics including stratigraphy, paleontology, and tectonics, all relevant to both contemporary and historical geological inquiries. Given its substantial reach and esteemed standing—ranked 5th out of 321 in its field—Gondwana Research plays a crucial role in fostering scientific exchange among global experts. Located in the United States with publication continuity from 1997 to 2024, this journal consistently attracts submissions from leading scientists, ensuring that its readership is kept at the forefront of geological discovery and innovation.

GEOLOGICAL JOURNAL

Advancing geological knowledge through peer-reviewed excellence.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0072-1050Frequency: 6 issues/year

GEOLOGICAL JOURNAL, an esteemed publication by WILEY, has been at the forefront of geological research since its inception in 1951. With an ISSN of 0072-1050 and E-ISSN of 1099-1034, this journal serves as a vital platform for disseminating high-quality, peer-reviewed research in the field of geology. Operating out of the United Kingdom, the journal proudly features a Scopus rank of 80 out of 321 in the Earth and Planetary Sciences category, reflecting its commitment to scholarly excellence, with a 2023 category quartile ranking of Q2. As part of its innovative approach, GEOLOGICAL JOURNAL seeks to foster interdisciplinary collaborations, advancing our understanding of earth processes, materials, and history. Although it does not offer open access options, its robust subscription model ensures that both professionals and students have access to groundbreaking insights. With a publication history that spans over seven decades, the GEOLOGICAL JOURNAL continues to be an indispensable resource for the global geological community, encouraging discoveries that shape our comprehension of the planet.

LETHAIA

Bridging Disciplines in the Study of Life's History
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.