A Bibliometric Analysis of Studies on Plant Endemism during the Period of 1991–2022

Abstract

A bibliometric analysis of 349 scholarly documents published on the topic plant nativity and endemism from 1991–2022 was carried out using the ‘bibliometrix’ tool, developed through the R programming language. The results revealed a significant increase in the number of publications on plant nativity and endemism research since 1991. Of the total of 349 documents that were analyzed, 38 are single authored documents, and the average number of documents per author is 0.278. Each document has received an average of 33.67 citations, with 3.18 citations per year per document. The relationship between the number of authors and the number of articles that they have published follows a power-law distribution. Based on Bradford’s law, only eight were found to be the core sources. Mexico, followed by the USA, has produced the highest number of documents on plant nativity and endemism. The present study suggests that it is necessary to categorize data on endemism by floristic provinces, not by political subdivisions. Synecological studies are also needed, since endemic plants exist within communities. Models that accurately predict levels of endemism on the basis of easily measurable environmental variables should be useful for the rapid identification of endemic-rich areas. Recognition of the importance of plant endemism and the implementation of conservation measures is crucial for preserving biodiversity hotspots. Both in situ and ex situ conservation efforts are essential for protecting endemic species and preventing their extinction. By integrating these approaches, we can contribute to the long-term conservation and management of endemic plant species.