Ecological Research has been published in English by the Ecological Society of Japan since 1986. Ecological Research publishes original papers on all aspects of ecology, in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Manuscripts published in this journal must fundamentally advance and/or change our understanding of ecological principles. Purely descriptive papers and those merely confirming or extending results of previous work will not be considered. We publish original articles, current topics in ecology, special features, biodiversity in Asia, technical reports, notes and comments, data papers, and forum papers. The acceptance criteria for all papers are quality and originality of research and its significance to our readership. Final acceptance or rejection rests with the Editorial Board. Of the papers published in each volume of Ecological Research approximately five will be chosen by members of the Editorial Board as "Excellent Papers" every year.