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Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin ›› 2025, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (32): 61-73.doi: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0297

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Bibliometric Analysis of Research Progress on Earthworms Affecting Transformation of Soil Organic Carbon

QIAN Shuai1(), WANG Mingda1, ZHU Hui1, LIU Shuyuan1, WANG Haoyu1, FAN Lichao1,2()   

  1. 1 College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100
    2 Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Green Agriculture in Northwestern China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100
  • Received:2025-04-15 Revised:2025-09-09 Online:2025-11-18 Published:2025-11-18

Abstract:

This study aims to systematically elaborate, through bibliometric analysis, the research progress and development trends in the field of earthworm-mediated SOC transformation and accumulation, thereby providing a basis for better understanding and addressing the challenge of the “earthworm dilemma.” Using the Web of Science Core Collection and CNKI databases as data sources, we conducted quantitative analysis and visual presentation of relevant literature with VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and HistCite, focusing on multiple dimensions including annual publication trends, citation frequency, disciplinary distribution, international collaboration networks, author/institutional cooperation, journal distribution, and research hotspots. In the research field of earthworm effects on SOC transformation, the number of publications has shown a steady growth trend, with agricultural science and environmental science as the main disciplines, extending to other fields. The current research hotspots mainly focus on: (1) the impact of interactions between soil emerging pollutants (e.g., microplastics) and earthworms on SOC transformation; (2) the effects of earthworms on greenhouse gas emissions; (3) the bidirectional mechanisms by which earthworms influence SOC transformation and stabilization. Future studies should strengthen multi-technology integration and long-term field experiments to uncover the regulatory mechanisms of earthworms on carbon cycling, establish quantitative models, and assess their interactions with agricultural management, thereby supporting carbon neutrality and soil health.

Key words: soil organic carbon, earthworms, bibliometrics, research progress, future trends