Bibliometric analysis of soil erosion research at runoff plot scale based on Web of Science from 1992 to 2023

Soil erosion is a significant factor contributing to soil and water loss, land degradation and ecosystem fragility. Research on soil erosion at the runoff plot scale is instrumental in deepening the understanding of erosion mechanisms and formulating prevention strategies. By means of CiteSpace, we conducted a bibliometric analysis on the studies of soil erosion in runoff plots indexed in the Web of Science database from 1992 to 2023. A systematic examination of 4, 313 documents was performed to analyze the collaborations and contributions of major research institutions and authors, keyword co-occurrences, and shifts in research hotspots. The results indicate a growing trend in publication volume within this field globally, with hot topics including "climate change" "land use", and "Loess Plateau". The United States and China possess the highest publication volumes, with the United States showing significant cooperation with European countries and institutions. Furthermore, research hotspots have shifted from conventional erosion mechanisms, monitoring and prevention to integrated applications of climate change, land use and remote sensing technologies. Additionally, keyword co-occurrences and time zone analyses have revealed the increasing importance of ecosystem services and sustainable land management strategies. Future research should focus on cross-scale studies and technological applications, particularly in the fields of ecosystem services, and the use of remote sensing technologies and GIS. Attention must also be paid to the accuracy and practicality of soil erosion measurement methods, as well as the significance of global cooperation in addressing soil erosion issues.