Assessing neonicotinoid pollution in aquatic ecosystems: A systematic review and bibliometric-content analysis

Abstract

The widespread use and distribution of neonicotinoids (NNIs) have led to their significant accumulation in aquatic ecosystems, posing serious ecological risks to non-target species and the human food chain. This review employed bibliometric analysis to examine global research from 2013 to 2023, highlighting key trends, advancements, and research priorities. Moreover, we summarized the global distribution of NNIs in various aquatic environments through content analysis and assessed their ecotoxicological effects under controlled laboratory conditions. Our findings indicate a growing global concern about NNIs in aquatic systems, with research efforts primarily concentrated in regions most affected by their use. The presence of NNIs across different water bodies highlights widespread contamination, with China facing particularly severe pollution. However, research on the safety of NNIs in aquatic environments remains insufficient. Future studies should focus on monitoring chronic NNIs exposure and its long-term ecological impacts through field research. Moreover, developing microbial formulations, integrating phytoremediation, and combining multiple technologies for synergy are crucial for developing sustainable strategies to mitigate NNIs pollution, protect human health, and preserve aquatic ecosystems.