Global research on elasmobranchs and pollution: a bibliometric and network analysis

Abstract

Background: Elasmobranchs are vital for maintaining marine ecosystem balance through trophic regulation and energy transfer but face increasing threats from anthropogenic pollution, including chemical contaminants that may bioaccumulate in exposed animals and pose both ecological and human health risks. Objective: This study aims to map global institutional collaborations and publications concening global research on pollution in elasmobranchs through a bibliometric and network analysis. This mapping offers a comprehensive view of research trends, gaps, and key contributors, aiding in conservation efforts. Methods: PRISMA guidelines were applied and a bibliometric and network analysis was performed, retrieving 71 peer-reviewed articles indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection and published between 2013 and 2022 which were then assessed. Results: Publication trends varied, with a recent decline to early-period levels. Marine Pollution Bulletin is the leading journal in this field. Main keywords include Bioaccumulation, Carcharhinidae, Mercury, and Maternal offloading. The most frequent research areas are Environmental Sciences & Ecology and Marine & Freshwater Biology, with Toxicology as the central network node. Brazil and the USA lead in publication counts, but Brazil shows limited international collaboration. Brazilian institutions dominate the top five most productive organizations, led by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation and the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro. The University of California ranks as the top North American institution and fifth overall. The Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, University of California, and University of Miami are central nodes in institutional collaboration networks. Conclusion: This study enhances understanding of global research on elasmobranchs and pollution by clarifying institutional collaboration networks and identifying the leading institutions and countries driving the field. Such mapping provides a strategic foundation to prioritize research directions, foster international cooperation, and align conservation actions with regions and taxa most at risk, thereby strengthening both scientific progress and evidence-based management of elasmobranchs.