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Abstract

In this study, bibliometric analysis and visualization tools were used to investigate the academic network and knowledge structure surrounding global giant clam research. A total of 551 relevant publications from the Web of Science database, published from 1900 to 2024, were analyzed. The findings indicate that research on giant clams has experienced considerable growth since 2012, peaking in publication output in 2021. Sixty-six countries were represented in the study sample, with the United States, Australia, China, Singapore, and Japan being the most represented ones. Notably, the rate of international collaboration was only 29%, highlighting a need for additional integrated cross-border research efforts. Keyword co-occurrence analysis indicated seven major research clusters, covering core themes such as the giant clam growth and symbiotic mechanisms, classification and diversity, conservation management, and climate change. Furthermore, findings on the authors’ collaboration network revealed a high concentration of research power, with only a few scholars dominating advances in the field. The present study delineates the knowledge structure and cooperation patterns within giant clam research while identifying current shortcomings in regional collaboration, data sharing, and policy connections. Efforts should be made to strengthen cross-sector integration and long-term monitoring systems as well as to deepen local community participation to enhance the scientific conservation and sustainable management of giant clams. This study contributes to the development of marine conservation policies and research strategies.

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