Peer Review Policy

Duties of Reviewers
The peer review process is a cornerstone of editorial decision-making at the International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Incremental Innovation (IJFAII). Reviewers play a vital role in ensuring the scientific quality, integrity, and relevance of published research. By offering critical, constructive, and unbiased feedback, reviewers help editors make informed publication decisions and guide authors in strengthening their work—particularly in areas concerning innovation, sustainability, and practical solutions in fisheries and aquatic sciences. IJFAII strongly encourages all qualified scholars to actively participate in the peer review process to support the advancement of aquatic research.

Timeliness
Reviewers are expected to complete their reviews within the stipulated timeframe. If a reviewer feels unqualified to evaluate the manuscript (e.g., due to limited expertise in a specific aquatic topic) or foresees a delay, they should promptly inform the editorial team and decline the invitation. This allows the journal to assign the manuscript to another reviewer promptly, helping to maintain an efficient and timely review process.

Confidentiality
All manuscripts received for review must be treated as confidential documents. Reviewers must not share, discuss, or disclose the contents of the manuscript with others unless explicitly authorized by the Editor-in-Chief in exceptional cases. Upholding confidentiality is essential to maintaining the integrity and credibility of the review process, particularly given the sensitive data often involved in fisheries and aquatic ecosystem studies.

Objectivity and Constructive Feedback
Reviews should be conducted objectively, focusing on the scientific content rather than the identity of the authors. Constructive criticism is essential and should be delivered respectfully and clearly. Reviewers should assess the manuscript’s methodology, data interpretation, relevance to the field, and contribution to innovation in fisheries and aquatic science. Personal remarks or unprofessional comments are strictly inappropriate and will not be tolerated.

Acknowledgment of Sources
Reviewers are encouraged to identify any relevant literature or prior studies that the authors may have missed, especially influential works in fisheries, aquaculture, aquatic biodiversity, or water resource management. If the reviewer notices any instances of plagiarism, duplication, or significant overlap with previously published or unpublished material, they are expected to inform the editorial team immediately.

Disclosure and Conflicts of Interest
Reviewers must disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest—including financial, institutional, collaborative, or personal relationships with the authors or affiliated organizations—that could compromise their impartiality. In such cases, reviewers should decline the review invitation and notify the editorial office.

Additionally, reviewers must not use any unpublished data or ideas from the manuscript in their own work or research without the express permission of the authors. Any privileged information obtained through peer review must remain confidential and must not be exploited for personal or professional gain, regardless of whether the reviewer accepts or declines the review assignment.

By upholding these standards, the International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Incremental Innovation maintains a rigorous, transparent, and ethical peer review system, contributing to the growth of credible and impactful aquatic science research.