Life on Earth is connected to its environment, with atmospheric conditions shaping the existence of all living organisms. Weather and climate patterns affect biological systems, from microscopic bacteria to complex ecosystems. This interplay highlights a scientific field dedicated to understanding these connections.
Understanding Biometeorology
Biometeorology is an interdisciplinary scientific field that explores the complex interactions between atmospheric processes and living organisms. It investigates how factors like temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and air composition affect biological systems. This includes examining the responses of humans, animals, and plants to various meteorological phenomena.
The field studies how atmospheric elements influence human health, such as the impact of heatwaves on physiological stress or the effects of air pollutants on respiratory conditions. It also analyzes how weather patterns influence animal behavior, migration, and the spread of diseases. Biometeorology impacts plant growth, agricultural yields, and forest health.
About the International Journal of Biometeorology
The International Journal of Biometeorology is a publication for research in biometeorology. Established in 1957, the journal has continuously published studies examining organism-environment interactions. Springer Science+Business Media Deutschland GmbH publishes the journal on behalf of the International Society of Biometeorology (ISB).
The journal disseminates high-quality, peer-reviewed research on how atmospheric factors influence life. Its scope encompasses Earth and environmental science, life sciences, animal physiology, plant physiology, and environmental medicine. The publication features international contributions from researchers. As of 2025, the journal has an Impact Factor of 2.6.
Key Research Areas
The International Journal of Biometeorology covers a wide array of research topics. Human biometeorology investigates atmospheric effects on human health and well-being. This includes studies on thermal comfort and the physiological impacts of heat stress or cold exposure. It also explores the influence of air pollution on health outcomes and climate change’s role in altering disease vector distribution.
Animal biometeorology focuses on how weather and climate affect livestock welfare and wild animal behavior. Research in this area analyzes the impact of extreme temperatures on dairy cattle productivity or how changing seasons influence wildlife migration patterns. Plant biometeorology examines atmospheric effects on vegetation, including studies on crop yields under varying climatic conditions and forest resilience to environmental changes. Urban biometeorology investigates unique atmospheric conditions within cities, such as the urban heat island effect, and their implications for urban planning and public health.
Impact of Biometeorological Research
The research published in the International Journal of Biometeorology provides insights with practical applications across various sectors. In public health, biometeorological findings contribute to the development of early warning systems for events like heatwaves, helping to mitigate heat-related illnesses and fatalities. This research also informs strategies for managing the spread of airborne diseases, understanding how atmospheric conditions influence pathogen transmission.
Within agriculture, biometeorological studies aid in optimizing crop production by identifying ideal growing conditions and developing climate-resilient farming practices. This knowledge helps farmers adapt to changing weather patterns and manage animal health in varying climates. The field supports urban planning by guiding the design of healthier, more sustainable cities, recommending green infrastructure to reduce urban heat. Overall, this research helps societies understand and adapt to the effects of environmental changes on living systems.