Bibliometrics of Scalidophora (Animalia: Ecdysozoa): Evolution of knowledge, research topics and scientific collaborations in three distinct animal phyla

Abstract

The clade Scalidophora is an animal taxon composed of three distinct phyla: Kinorhyncha, Priapulida and Loricifera. These animals are currently studied by a very small but highly active number of experts, and the overall knowledge about the group remains low due to challenges in handling and describing them, as well as the relatively recent discovery of the third phyla. In this contribution, we analyse the study of Scalidophora and its constituent phyla using bibliometric tools, with the aim of understanding the state of research in the group and identifying and predicting trends in its study. Our results indicate (1) a trend towards taxonomy in Scalidophora research, likely due to the generally low knowledge of the clade; (2) a significant growth in recent years in both general scientific production and the number of species of these animals; (3) high collaboration patterns, especially among European countries and countries such as Japan and the United States; (4) a clear imbalance in productivity and knowledge between regions of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres; and (5) a substantial positive impact of the Scalidophora Workshops and the associated Special Issues on scientific production and collaborations within the group.