Key Advances in Descriptive Anatomy and Structural Zoology

Key Advances in Descriptive Anatomy and Structural Zoology

“It is sometimes overlooked how essential a component in the methodology of evolutionary biology the underlying descriptive work is” Mayr (1982: 70). One of the challenges of this journal will be to give descriptive anatomy, systematic biology, and their philosophical underpinnings, the respect and recognition they are due. This will be achieved by addressing ten key challenge areas: publishing cutting-edge anatomical research, elevating and recognizing equitable, fundamental research that gathers primary anatomical data worldwide and links it to aspects of the extended phenotype—such as behavior and life history—that are best studied locally, and exploring the epistemology and ontology of structural zoology. We will also promote the integration of neontological and palaeontological research, contribute to taxonomic and nomenclatural thought and debate, investigate ontogenetic, individual, and sexual variation in comparative biology, and drive advances in technology and software. All contributions must adhere to the highest standards of methodological reproducibility, and best practice for data storage and accessibility for global access.

Why this challenge matters now

“In-depth understanding of organism biology is crucial in this “century of extinctions” – but just as importantly, knowledge and data must be available to all.” – Challenge Editor Dr. Mark Young, University of Southampton

Descriptive anatomy and structural zoology are foundational to understanding the diversity of life on Earth. As we continue to push the boundaries of evolutionary biology, it is essential to also enhance and refine the tools, technologies, and theoretical frameworks that help us understand organismal structure. This challenge offers a platform for researchers to publish high-impact work that advances our understanding of anatomy and its role in shaping behavior, life history, and evolutionary change.

From taxonomic debates to cutting-edge software for analyzing anatomical data, this challenge provides opportunities to address crucial questions, such as how to best integrate neontological and paleontological findings, and how new technological advances are revolutionizing the study of anatomy.

Key Topics

Publication of cutting-edge anatomical research

Elevating and recognizing equitable, fundamental global research collecting primary anatomical data

Exploration of the epistemology and ontology of structural zoology

Integration of neontological and palaeontological research

Contributions to taxonomic and nomenclatural thought and debate

In-depth exploration of ontogenetic, individual, and sexual variation in comparative biology

Advances in technology and software

Challenge Editors

Professor Julia A Clarke, University of Texas at Austin

Dr Mark T Young, University of Southampton

Submit today!

If these topics resonate with your research, we invite you to submit your research to this Global Challenge.