Global pattern of studies on phosphorus at watershed scale

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Water Resource Management
• Ecology

Background:

• Phosphorus is crucial for watershed ecosystem services.
• A significant increase in publications on watershed phosphorus research has been observed.
• Understanding global research trends is vital for effective phosphorus management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To bibliometrically analyze global research status and trends in watershed phosphorus.
• To identify leading countries, institutions, and journals in the field.
• To map the evolution of research topics and collaborations.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of publications from the Science Citation Index Expanded (Web of Science).
• Cluster and network analysis to visualize research status and trends.
• Identification of publication output, key journals, subject categories, leading countries, and institutions.

Main Results:

• Annual publication output has increased notably since 1991.
• The Journal of Environmental Quality, Environmental Sciences, Water Resources, and Marine Freshwater Biology are prominent.
• The USA leads in publications, with strong collaborations with China, Canada, and the UK. Chinese Academy of Sciences is a key player in international cooperation.
• Eutrophication is a mainstream research topic, with phosphorus management models gaining importance.

Conclusions:

• Interdisciplinary collaboration, especially between natural and social sciences, is essential.
• Strengthening regional and international scientific cooperation is crucial.
• Further theoretical research on human activities, climate change impacts on phosphorus biogeochemical cycles, and watershed ecosystem integrity is needed for sustainable development.