Global Landscape of Zebrafish Research (2000-2025): A Bibliometric Analysis of Publication Trends, Collaboration, and Thematic Evolution.

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of zebrafish (Danio rerio) research published between 2000 and 2025, based on data retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection and analyzed using Clarivate's InCites platform. A total of 74,675 records were examined to uncover trends in publication volume, geographical and institutional distribution, international collaborations, disciplinary coverage, and thematic evolution over time. The results indicate a steady growth in zebrafish-related publications, particularly between 2000 and 2021, followed by a relative plateau. The United States and China lead in research output, with China showing rapid growth over the last decade. Collaboration networks remain dominated by a limited number of high-capacity countries, while many others, particularly those with limited infrastructure, remain underrepresented. The Cooperation in Science and Technology Member Countries also showed a noticeable decline in publication numbers following a 2021 peak. Thematic keyword analysis revealed a clear shift from early developmental biology themes-such as hindbrain and retinal development-toward emerging topics such as regeneration, oxidative stress, and toxicology. However, the findings suggest that this thematic diversification has not yet translated into widespread interdisciplinary integration. Zebrafish research remains largely anchored within classical biological disciplines, despite its increasing relevance to fields such as neuroscience, environmental health, pharmacology, and biomedical engineering. This mismatch between thematic scope and interdisciplinary adoption represents a potentially missed opportunity-especially in addressing complex global challenges. Strengthening cross-disciplinary collaborations and promoting the adoption of zebrafish in innovative, technology-driven research contexts may help unlock the full strategic potential of this versatile model organism.