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Understanding anthropogenic pressures on freshwater ecosystems: recent trends and emerging issues (2019-2023)
Summary
A bibliometric analysis of 5,549 freshwater ecosystem studies (2019–2023) found microplastic research mentions rose sharply from 19 to 198 articles, surpassing nutrients and pharmaceuticals as a studied emerging pollutant in rivers, lakes, and wetlands. This trend documents the rapidly growing scientific recognition of microplastics as a primary freshwater contaminant alongside agriculture and urbanization pressures.
Abstract Aim To identify and analyze the most frequently investigated anthropogenic pressures and emerging research themes in freshwater ecosystem studies recently published (between 2019 and 2023). Methods A bibliometric literature review was conducted using the Web of Science and Scopus databases. Articles were selected based on predefined search strings related to freshwater systems and human impacts. A total of 5,549 peer-reviewed articles in English were analyzed using the Bibliometrix package in R®, focusing on abstracts and author keywords to detect trends in stressors, contaminants, ecosystem types, and research collaboration networks. Results Rivers were the most frequently studied ecosystems (4,848 records; 90%), followed by lakes (621; 11%) and wetlands (337; 6%). Agriculture (35%), urbanization (28%), and mining (11%) were the top referenced drivers. Mentions of emerging pollutants grew sharply, with microplastics rising from 19 in 2019 to 198 in 2023, surpassing nutrients and pharmaceuticals. China (3,089), the United States (1,207), Canada (353), and Brazil (309) led in research output, with increasing international collaborations and adoption of advanced tools such as machine learning and remote sensing. Conclusions The literature reveals a growing interest in understanding complex human pressures on freshwater ecosystems. Strengthening international cooperation and integrating policy-oriented research emerge as frequently highlighted strategies in the literature to address these challenges.