A scientometric study of the molecular data on Brazilian red algae

Abstract

The growth in the number of molecular sequences produced in recent years has provided valuable contributions to the knowledge diversity of red algae (Rhodophyta) in Brazil. However, many works indicate that there is still much to be studied. Here, we highlight the importance of compiling all these data to evidence possible taxonomic and geographic knowledge gaps in red algae through molecular data. So, this study presents a scientometric analysis of the molecular studies carried out on red algae in Brazil, based on the analysis of DNA sequences available in the public database GenBank. Our results demonstrated an increase in published papers from 1994 to 2020, corresponding to 165 studies analyzed. A huge disparity in the production of knowledge was observed, with the southeastern region concentrating the researchers responsible for most of the published studies, with emphasis on those in the University of São Paulo (USP). Bahia and São Paulo states stand out with the highest observed taxonomic richness, respectively. We also could identify the taxonomic groups with more molecular data generated, the sequence number deposited per institution since 1994, the main markers used, the regions that require a greater collection effort, and where the researchers who study red algae in the country are.