At the heart of Rethinking Ecology is the publication of perspective papers presenting novel and potentially bold ideas and hypothesis. However, we recognise that such new ideas can be presented in a variety of formats. Therefore, we are now accepting three new article types, namely: research articles, software presentations and horizon scanning papers.
To celebrate the broadening of the journal’s scope, we are offering free publication for every manuscript submitted before the end of the year (manuscripts will still be peer-reviewed and if accepted accessible in open access as usual).
The full scope of the journal now comprises perspectives, research papers, rapid communications, responses, software descriptions and horizon scanning papers all with an emphasis on new hypotheses and bold ideas. Descriptions for each article type are listed below.
Perspective papers that propose a new idea, hypothesis or terminology that is well supported conceptually by existing literature.
Research papers that are empirical or theoretical studies presenting novel data or analysis that contribute to a better understanding of the topic under scrutiny. The methodology must be described in detail and all necessary information to reproduce the work must be provided for reviewing purpose (e.g. data, codes etc.).
Rapid communications that are short research papers which include experimental testing of a new idea or hypothesis. The methodology must be described in detail and all necessary information to reproduce the work must be provided for reviewing purpose (e.g. data, codes etc.).
Response papers that complement a recently published paper (either in Rethinking Ecology or in another peer-reviewed journal), by bringing a new idea/hypothesis or by presenting an opposing view/opinion.
Software presentations that describe for the first time the scope and basic functions of a software or a significant update to a previously published existing software.
Horizon scanning papers that present a forward-looking systematic analysis based on a survey of the latest literature to identify future threats or future areas of growth, inform risk management strategies, and/or provide guidance in research prioritisation (see Sutherland & Woodroof 2009: The need for environmental horizon scanning). These papers must provide clear recommendations about the topic under scrutiny to scientists, practitioners and/or decision makers.
