Testate amoebae (Amorphea, Amoebozoa, Cercozoa) as bioindicators: a scientometric review

Abstract: Aim The free-living protists testate amoebae are recognized as being bioindicators, able to reveal environmental alteration via remodifying richness, diversity and abundance of species. To assess the scientific production on use a scientometric analysis was undertaken from 1960 2020. Methods sourcing articles derived Google Academic, Scielo, Science Direct Online Library research platforms. All selected papers were factored according chronology, journal publication, country, authors’ affiliation, whether study empirical or experimentation, if it included solely other groups organisms, aspects environment. Results A total 215 ninety-two journals revealed notable increase in publication numbers over last decades. two that most published data this theme Microbial Ecology Ecological Indicators. Whilst largest number European Continent, countries contributed subject Canada temperate region Brazil tropics. Edward A.D. Mitchell studies regarding institutions Franche-Comté University. majority associated testaceans bioindicators empirical, conducted with Thecamoebian inhabiting moss such, dissociated groups. Conclusions Despite suggested uptick our results indicate concentration limited regions globe. In another aspect, great testaceans’ community as-a-whole, showing shortage in-depth knowledge into species functional Therefore, survey points wide variety aquatic ecosystems devoid matter, indicating need foster amoeba's role especially tropical regions.