Mapping knowledge to guide conservation action: Trends in broad-snouted caiman research.

Area of Science:

• Conservation Biology
• Bibliometrics
• Ecology

Background:

• The broad-snouted caiman (Caiman latirostris) is ecologically, culturally, and economically vital in South American wetlands.
• Previous research has not systematically quantified trends or identified knowledge gaps concerning this key species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a bibliometric analysis and systematic review of Caiman latirostris research.
• To identify geographic and thematic research trends, collaborative networks, and critical knowledge gaps.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric mapping and systematic review of 484 publications.
• Analysis of geographic distribution, research topics, and collaboration patterns.
• Keyword analysis to identify research gaps.

Main Results:

• Research is geographically concentrated in Argentina and Brazil, and thematically focused on physiology, toxicology, and reproduction, often in captive settings.
• Ecological studies, habitat-specific dynamics, and anthropogenic impacts are underrepresented.
• Keyword analysis revealed gaps in population ecology, habitat studies, and conservation actions.

Conclusions:

• Significant research gaps exist in field-based ecological and conservation studies for Caiman latirostris.
• Recommendations include expanding field research, addressing anthropogenic impacts, fostering international collaboration, and integrating grey literature.
• The study provides a framework for identifying research priorities in conservation biology for other species.