The impact of salinity on heavy metal accumulation in seaweed

Abstract

Aquatic heavy metal pollution, driven by industrialization and climate change, threatens marine ecosystems through bioaccumulation. Climate-induced salinity fluctuations influence metal speciation and bioavailability in coastal environments. Seaweeds, crucial for nutrient cycling and economic use, exhibit species-specific metal uptake under varying salinity conditions. This study employs bibliometric analysis to examine research trends from 1995 to 2024 on the impact of salinity on metal accumulation in seaweeds. A search conducted on 8 October 2024 resulted in 242 articles, which were then filtered to 28 relevant studies for analysis. Using the Web of Science Core Collection, these articles were analyzed with VOSviewer and Bibliometrix to identify key contributors, collaborations, and research themes. Results reveal a growing academic interest since 2006, with increasing citation counts reflecting global concern over salinity and heavy metal pollution. Significant contributions from Brazil and Portugal, alongside strong European collaborations, highlight regional strengths. Five key themes emerge, encompassing seaweed physiology, biomonitoring, and phytoremediation. Findings indicate that salinity fluctuations significantly affect metal bioavailability and uptake in seaweeds, influenced by species-specific factors, temperature, and pH. This study highlights the need for targeted, site-specific research on diverse seaweed species to effectively manage heavy metal pollution in coastal ecosystems, particularly in light of climate change and industrial activities. Additionally, the research emphasizes the potential of seaweeds as bioindicators and bioremediators in environmental monitoring and pollution management.