Global scientometric trends and knowledge gaps in halophyte research (1975–2024)

Citation

Moss b, Soffa FB, Nyberg Y, Eccles C, Segaran TC, Ahmed N, Marip M, Wei LS & Azra MN (2026) Global scientometric trends and knowledge gaps in halophyte research (1975–2024). Plant Ecology, 227, Art. No.: 73. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11258-026-01637-y

Abstract
Halophytes, recognised for their extreme resilience to saline environments, have gained prominence as pivotal components in climate adaptation strategies, phytoremediation, and sustainable agriculture. This study, encompassing 4,065 articles and 203,405 references (1975–2024), conducted a rigorous scientometric analysis using CiteSpace to identify key trends, knowledge gaps, and opportunities in halophyte research. Research output has increased exponentially since 2012, with citation surges since 2019, indicating rising global interest. Salicornia bigelovii and Spartina alterniflora were central to advances in salt tolerance studies, supported by Cluster #0 ("osmotic adjustment") with a strength of 594.04 and a silhouette score of 0.853. However, challenges persist in functional gene characterisation, as evidenced by Cluster #1 ("differential gene expression") with a strength of 535.71, and by the limited scalability of halophyte cultivation practices. Geographical disparities were evident, with underrepresentation from South America, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands and Africa, despite the participation of 102 countries. Notably, China emerged as a leading contributor (24.5% of total output), followed by the USA and Spain. Omics integration remains underutilised despite its potential, as highlighted by clusters on transcriptomics (Cluster #2, strength 1174.69) and microbial diversity (Cluster #6, strength 968.28). Emerging areas, such as the bioenergy potential of halophytes (keyword burst strength 14.01), require further exploration to harness their high biomass and phytoremediation capabilities. Recommendations include enhancing global collaboration, prioritising omics-based approaches, and formulating policies to integrate halophyte species into aquaculture and bioenergy systems. This comprehensive scientometric analysis identifies actionable insights and offers a robust roadmap for advancing halophyte-based solutions to global environmental challenges.

Keywords
Abiotic stress; Bioremediation; Climate adaption; Ecosystem resilience; Phytoremediation; Saline agriculture

Journal
Plant Ecology: Volume 227