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Hydrological sciences in hyperarid regions: a bibliometric analysis of scientific knowledge and thematic trends in the Atacama Desert
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DOI：10.3389/frwa.2026.1870132.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
In contemporary science; bibliometric analysis has become a fundamental tool to quantify; map; and interpret the development and structure of research across disciplines. In the context of increasing water scarcity; it becomes even more critical to identify and follow the most impactful and innovative research trends worldwide. For these reasons; the present study conducts a bibliometric analysis of hydrological and hydrogeological research in the Atacama Desert over the past 35 years based on a multi-database approach integrating data from Scopus; Web of Science and Dimensions database. The objective of this study is to delineate the intellectual landscape of hydrological studies through quantitative indicators; citation networks; and thematic clustering analyses of hydrological knowledge in this hyper-arid environment. The bibliometric analysis reveals a progressive rise in hydrological research within the Atacama Desert; with publication activity reaching its highest levels between 2018 and 2023. While Chile accounts for the largest share of publications; countries such as the United States; Spain; Germany; and Peru also contribute to the scientific output in this field. In addition; the most recurrent research focus corresponds to groundwater resources and recharge processes; reflecting the central role of subsurface water studies in this hyper-arid environment. In this sense; the findings contribute to strengthening water management strategies and guiding scientific priorities in one of the most water-scarce regions on Earth.
Keywords:
water management
surface water
bibliometric analysis
water scarcity
water governance
Atacama Desert
hydrological sciences
Journal
F
IF:
2.8
Papers:
360
Citations:
2.1K
Organization
Cited Papers