How insects work—Linking genotype to phenotype

Abstract

Physiological Entomology considers how insects function and cope with their environment. We address these proximate questions in insect physiology across all biological levels and disciplines, including molecular genetics, morphology and ecology. The mission of Physiological Entomology is broad and not restricted to one particular field within insect physiology. Physiological Entomology further welcomes research that focuses on non-insect arthropods, such as crustaceans and arachnids.

For the past century, Physiological Entomology has published original high-quality research that carries broad implications for the field of entomology. Although our emphasis is centred on research manuscripts, we also welcome reviews. Review manuscripts are expected to provide a comprehensive and timely review of the study area. We are also encouraging the community to submit proposals for Special Issues. Together with Wiley, we will support Guest Editors of these Special Issues throughout the entire process. Finally, we now also provide researchers with a Methods platform to promote the development and dissemination of novel methods in insect physiology.

Physiological Entomology is a Royal Entomological Society journal and contributes to the society's goal to support the broad research community and the study and practice of insect science. To support this mission, we have a prize for the best research by an Early Career researcher award, which will be awarded soon on a biannual basis. To be eligible, authors must be the lead author and an early career researcher, which the RES defines as any researcher who is within 10 years of completing their undergraduate degree or with less than 10 years working in entomology in any capacity, with or without a degree. Time for career breaks is not counted in the 10-year time period. We will also shortly be introducing a competition for timely review articles written by early career researchers.

In February 2024, Thies Büscher (Kiel University), Nick Teets (University of Kentucky) and Nick Wybouw (Ghent University) joined our editorial board as new Editors-in-Chief. Thies Büscher is a functional morphologist who researches the evolution and biomechanics of insect attachment systems to elucidate how they interact with and are adapted to surfaces in their environment. Nick Teets focuses on adaptations to variable and extreme environmental conditions, including mechanisms underlying thermal tolerance and overwintering, and the implications of environmental variation for pest control. Nick Wybouw is an evolutionary geneticist who studies the molecular-genetic basis of complex traits within the broader fields of endosymbiosis, herbivory and speciation. This new set of complementary expertise in our editorial board will enable us to continue publishing impactful and high-quality studies. To further ensure the publication of high-quality studies across the broad scope of Physiological Entomology, we have the support of a global and diverse associate editorial board. We currently have vacancies in the areas of sensory physiology, (functional) morphology, nutritional physiology, immunology, symbiont–host interactions, seasonality, diapause, photoperiodism and biomechanics and look for potential Associate Editors in these areas. Experience in editing is not essential, but interested applicants must have experience in publishing and peer review. More information can be found on the website of the Royal Entomological Society (https://www.royensoc.co.uk/opportunities/royal-entomological-society-journals-open-call-for-associate-editors/).

Toby Bruce: Conceptualization; writing – review and editing. Thies H. Büscher: Conceptualization; writing – review and editing. Fiona Clissold: Conceptualization; writing – review and editing. Nicholas Teets: Conceptualization; writing – review and editing. Nicky Wybouw: Conceptualization; writing – original draft.