Integrative Zoology, the flagship journal of the International Society of Zoological Sciences, is pleased to announce a Special Issue dedicated to the conservation and management of endangered vertebrates. As the global decline in vertebrate biodiversity accelerates, it is increasingly urgent to understand the complex ecological, genetic, and social dimensions influencing the survival of these species and their ecological functions. This Special Issue aims to showcase innovative research that integrates ecological science, conservation practice, and genetic insight to inform and advance the protection of endangered vertebrate species.
Scope of the Special Issue
We invite submissions focusing on endangered vertebrates. For the purposes of this Special Issue, we define ‘endangered’ species as those listed as Endangered, Critically Endangered, or Extinct in the Wild on the IUCN Red List. We also welcome studies on species not yet formally assessed by the Red List but for which there is compelling evidence suggesting they would likely qualify for one of these categories, based on population trends or other relevant indicators. Priority will be given to studies on Critically Endangered species and those that are severely understudied.
Ecological Studies of Endangered Vertebrates: Comprehensive research on population ecology, habitat requirements, and ecological niches of endangered vertebrates. Such research may involve examining species-specific behaviors, migration patterns, and trophic relationships, all of which are essential for their survival. Gaining a deeper understanding of these ecological aspects can offer critical insights into effective strategies for the protection and restoration of their habitats.
Impact of Human Activities on Endangered Vertebrates: Analysis of how human pressures—such as habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and over-exploitation—threaten endangered vertebrates, pushing them closer to extinction. Research that focuses on human-wildlife conflicts and the effects of fear on species survival, behavioral adaptations, and reproductive outcomes is strongly encouraged. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these impacts can help formulate targeted mitigation strategies.
Conservation Genetics of Endangered Vertebrates: Research that explores the genetic diversity, population genetics, and evolutionary history of endangered vertebrates or focuses on genetic factors influencing adaptability, inbreeding depression, and genetic rescue methods is highly encouraged. Conservation genetics is crucial for understanding the long-term viability of endangered populations and developing effective conservation strategies.
Conservation Strategies and Their Effectiveness: Studies that evaluate existing conservation strategies, including the establishment of protected areas, captive breeding programs, and habitat restoration efforts, are encouraged. Papers may showcase both successful cases and the challenges encountered during the implementation of these strategies, providing valuable lessons for future conservation efforts.
Submission Guidelines
All submissions must adhere to the standard submission guidelines of Integrative Zoology. Manuscripts should be original, unpublished, and not currently under consideration for publication elsewhere. They must be written in English and must comply with the journal's formatting requirements. Manuscripts should be submitted online at the journal’s manuscript center: http://mc03.manuscriptcentral.com/inz
Original Research Articles: These should present novel research findings, featuring a clear hypothesis, well-documented methodologies, and robust data analysis. The articles should contribute significantly to the understanding of the conservation and management of endangered vertebrates.
Review Articles: Comprehensive review articles that synthesize existing knowledge, identify research gaps, and provide a forward-looking perspective on the topic are encouraged.
Letters to the Editor: Brief reports of significant new findings that are of immediate interest to the field.
Deadline
The submission deadline is January 31, 2026. Manuscripts received after this date will not be considered for this Special Issue. Please submit your manuscripts through the journal’s online submission system and clearly indicate that your submission is for the “Conservation and Management of Endangered Vertebrates” Special Issue in the covering letter.
We eagerly anticipate your high-quality contributions, which will enhance our knowledge and understanding in the critical field of endangered vertebrate conservation and management.
Editors:
Chuanwu CHEN, Associate Professor, Nanjing Normal University
Penglai FAN, Professor, Guangxi Normal University
Ran TIAN, Associate Professor, Nanjing Normal University
Matthew SMITH, Assistant Professor, Texas A&M University
Ahimsa CAMPOS ARCEIZ, Professor, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences
