Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics: A Legacy of Scientific Excellence
In the rapidly advancing world of biological sciences, staying current with significant developments is essential for researchers and academics alike. The Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics serves as a premier resource for this purpose, providing high-quality, invited review articles that synthesize the most important findings in the life sciences.
Published by Annual Reviews (US), this journal has established itself as a cornerstone of scientific literature, focusing on the complex interactions between organisms, their environments, and their evolutionary histories. By offering deep dives into timely topics, it helps shape the direction of modern biological research.
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Key Facts
- Established: 1970 (originally as Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics)
- Impact Factor: 11.4 (2024)
- Core Disciplines: Ecology, evolutionary biology, and systematics
- Publication Model: Subscribe to Open (Open Access)
- Frequency: Published annually
- Ranking: 4th out of 200 journals in Ecology; 3rd out of 53 in Evolutionary Biology
A Rich History of Scientific Contribution
The journal's journey began 56 years ago in 1970 under its first editor, Richard F. Johnston. For over five decades, it has evolved alongside the disciplines it covers. In 1975, the publication added a unique tradition by including biographies of notable ecologists in its prefatory chapters, honoring the pioneers of the field.
A significant milestone occurred in 2003 when the journal adopted its current name, reflecting a broader and more integrated scope that encompasses evolutionary biology—the study of how organisms change over time—and systematics, the science of classifying and naming organisms based on their evolutionary relationships.
Scope and Scientific Focus
The journal is dedicated to covering significant developments regarding all life on Earth. Its scope is broad, addressing fundamental questions in biology through various specialized lenses. Key areas of focus include:
- Molecular evolution: The study of changes in DNA and protein sequences.
- Phylogeny: The evolutionary history and relationships of a group of organisms.
- Speciation: The process by which new and distinct species are formed.
- Population dynamics: How populations change in size and composition over time.
- Conservation biology: The protection and management of biodiversity.
- Environmental resource management: The sustainable use of natural resources.
- Invasive species: The study of non-native species that impact ecosystems.
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Editorial Rigor and Process
To maintain its high standing, the journal employs a strict and professional editorial process. Unlike many other scientific publications, the Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Instead, the editorial committee identifies critical topics and actively solicits reviews from qualified experts in the field.
The Editorial Structure
The journal is led by an editor (currently Douglas J. Futuyma) and supported by an editorial committee. This committee includes associate editors and regular members, who are appointed by the Annual Reviews board of directors for five-year terms. Occasionally, guest editors are invited to participate for one-year terms. This committee is responsible for determining the volume's themes and conducting the peer review process for all accepted manuscripts.
Journal Summary and Metadata
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Editor | Douglas J. Futuyma |
| ISSN (Print/Web) | 1545-2069 |
| Standard Abbreviation | Annu. Rev. Ecol. Evol. Syst. |
| Indexing | Scopus, Science Citation Index Expanded, BIOSIS, and more |
| Access Model | Subscribe to Open (Open Access) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit my own research paper to this journal?
No. The journal does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Instead, the editorial committee selects specific topics and invites qualified authors to submit review articles.
What is the current impact factor of the journal?
As of the 2025 Journal Citation Reports, the journal holds a 2024 impact factor of 11.4.
How often is the journal published?
The journal is published on an annual basis.
Is the content available for free?
Yes, as of 2023, the journal is published as open access under the "Subscribe to Open" model.
What disciplines does the journal cover?
The journal focuses on ecology, evolutionary biology, and systematics, covering significant developments in the study of all life on Earth.