Knowledge mapping analysis of the global seaweed research using CiteSpace

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Biotechnology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Seaweed research is rapidly expanding, yet comprehensive scientometric analyses are lacking.
• Growing interest from diverse stakeholders necessitates a structured overview of the field.
• Understanding global research trends is crucial for future development and collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scientometric analysis of global seaweed research.
• To identify publication trends, collaboration patterns, and network structures.
• To reveal emerging research themes and their evolution over time.

Main Methods:

• Utilized CiteSpace software for analysis.
• Examined 48,278 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (since 1975).
• Performed thematic and timeline co-citation cluster analyses.

Main Results:

• Identified three primary research clusters: "Coral reef," "Solar radiation," and "Mycosporine-like amino acid."
• Observed increasing prominence of keywords such as "Chemical composition" and "Antioxidant."
• Recent research focuses on coral reefs, ocean acidification, and antioxidants.

Conclusions:

• Seaweed research is multidisciplinary and actively evolving.
• Seaweed shows significant potential as a functional food for global food security and sustainability.
• Bibliometric analysis is vital for understanding the seaweed research landscape and fostering collaboration.