The Journal of Zoology is where different fields of zoology meet and combine.

Our research papers are original and of broad interest. Our Editors seek studies that are hypothesis-driven and interdisciplinary in nature. We cover animal behaviour, ecology, physiology, anatomy, biology, evolution, systematics, and genomics. We also welcome reviews and perspectives on current topics. We are proud to be an official journal of the Zoological Society of London.

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Articles

Temporal relationships between the red fox and the European badger in a Mediterranean protected area

  •  6 November 2024

Graphical Abstract

Temporal relationships between the red fox and the European badger in a Mediterranean protected area Issue ,

We assessed spatiotemporal partitioning between the red fox and the European badger in a Mediterranean protected area using intensive camera trapping. Both species displayed nocturnal temporal activity patterns with peaks at dawn and dusk. A significant temporal overlap (Δ > 0.78) was observed, with no evidence of interspecific spatiotemporal avoidance. Temporal partitioning at a finer scale during the night may facilitate coexistence between these carnivore species.

Influence of captive breeding environment on the locomotor performance and metabolism of the threatened Alcatraz Snouted Treefrog, Ololygon alcatraz

  •  5 November 2024

Graphical Abstract

Influence of captive breeding environment on the locomotor performance and metabolism of the threatened Alcatraz Snouted Treefrog, Ololygon alcatraz Issue ,

Ex situ conservation complements in situ efforts and involves maintaining and breeding endangered species in captivity for future reintroduction into their natural habitats. However, prolonged captivity can negatively impact the abilities of these organisms over generations. This study investigates how captivity affects locomotor performance, morphology, and metabolism in threatened treefrogs (Ololygon alcatraz). Results show that wild adult frogs have larger limbs, greater jumping abilities, and a more glycolytic metabolism compared to captive-bred adults, who exhibit smaller limbs and enhanced aerobic enzyme activity. These differences, likely due to phenotypic plasticity, are not observed in juveniles. The findings highlight the need for improved management strategies for captive O. alcatraz to enhance their chances of successful reintroduction and strengthen ex situ conservation efforts.

Exploring the protective role of jelly capsules in jelly‐nest tree frog eggs based on proteomic and peptidomic studies

  •  5 November 2024

Graphical Abstract

Exploring the protective role of jelly capsules in jelly-nest tree frog eggs based on proteomic and peptidomic studies Issue ,

The jelly-nest tree frog (Feihyla palpebralis) has evolved a unique reproductive strategy with terrestrial eggs protected by a gelatinous envelope. Proteomic and peptidomic investigations unveiled a diverse array of 83 proteins and 1642 peptides, exhibiting critical functions such as predator deterrence, anti-inflammatory responses, antioxidant protection, and proteinase inhibition. These findings enhance our understanding of the protective mechanisms essential for the development of their embryos in terrestrial environment.

Cascading effects driven by population recovery of sika deer on habitat use of sympatric mammals under heavy snow conditions

  •  5 November 2024

Graphical Abstract

Cascading effects driven by population recovery of sika deer on habitat use of sympatric mammals under heavy snow conditions Issue ,

This study focused on direct/indirect ecological impacts of sika deer (Cervus nippon), one of the most influential ecosystem engineers. Although the destructive disturbances on local flora caused by overpopulations of deer have been easier to observe, here we aimed to identify bottom-up cascading effects driven by sika deer during midwinter on four sympatric mammals (Japanese serow Capricornis crispus, Japanese hare Lepus brachyurus angustidens, red fox Vulpes vulpes, and Japanese marten Martes melampu), highlighting the important role of large herbivores in trophic rewilding.

Open access

Variation in white‐tailed and mule deer dental metrics is associated with precipitation gradients in the Americas

  •  27 October 2024

Graphical Abstract

Variation in white-tailed and mule deer dental metrics is associated with precipitation gradients in the Americas Issue ,

This project characterizes molar hypsodonty indices and mesowear scores of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) populations across North and Central America, investigating if and how molar wear and morphology vary over the deer's large and ecologically variable geographic distribution. While mesowear scores generally do not strongly track environmental signals within and between Odocoileus species, hypsodonty indices reveal a strong correlation between crown height and aridity, which likely represents an adaptive response to abrasive diets in areas with low precipitation.

Open access

Further thoughts on comparative analyses of coloration

  •  101-102
  •  18 October 2024
No abstract is available for this article.

We prefer nighttime, they prefer daytime: Biological rhythm variability in cave‐dwelling whip spiders (Amblypygi: Charontidae) in the Neotropics

  •  13 October 2024

Graphical Abstract

We prefer nighttime, they prefer daytime: Biological rhythm variability in cave-dwelling whip spiders (Amblypygi: Charontidae) in the Neotropics Issue ,

The study investigates locomotor rhythms in whip spiders from Brazilian carbonate caves under varied light conditions (LL, DD, and LD), highlighting behavioral diversity and a lack of distinct patterns between troglobites and troglophiles.

Rivers and spatial distance are drivers of genetic diversity in the south American dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus)

  •  11 October 2024

Graphical Abstract

Rivers and spatial distance are drivers of genetic diversity in the south American dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus) Issue ,

Paleosuchus palpebrosus is one of the smallest crocodilians in the world and has a wide geographic distribution in South America, occurring in different habitat conditions. Here we investigate how elements of landscape heterogeneity impact genetic differentiation and evaluate the evolutionary and phylogeographic history of the species. Photo credit: Leandro Alves.

Open access

Effects of geographical location and size on the functional properties of harvest mouse Micromys minutus nests in Great Britain

  •  10 October 2024

Graphical Abstract

Effects of geographical location and size on the functional properties of harvest mouse Micromys minutus nests in Great Britain Issue ,

This study investigated the effect of geographical location on the size, thermal and rainproofing characteristics of harvest mouse nests collected in Great Britain. Mass but not geographical location affected insulatory values. Rainproofing was affected by longitude, with larger nests from the west perhaps being better able to cope with heavy rain.

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