Research

MAPPING GLOBAL WATER BUFFALO RESEARCH FROM 2000 TO 2024: PUBLICATION TRENDS, COLLABORATION NETWORKS, AND RESEARCH THEMES

This study maps the global landscape of water buffalo research between 2000

and 2024 using bibliometric approaches. The analysis covers scientific output,

collaboration patterns, and the evolution of research themes within the field. Overall,

the findings indicate a steady and marked increase in publication volume, reflecting

growing scientific attention to buffalo production systems. India emerged as the

most prolific contributor, whereas Italy showed the highest citation impact,

suggesting differences between research quantity and influence.

Analysis of keyword co-occurrence and thematic clusters indicates a clear

shift in research priorities. Earlier studies were largely centered on genetics and

basic physiology, while more recent work increasingly emphasizes reproductive

biotechnology, molecular techniques, and lactation-related research. In contrast,

topics related to nutrition, feed resources, and feeding innovation remain relatively

underrepresented. Collaboration network analysis shows that internationally co-

authored publications tend to achieve higher citation impact; however, several

major buffalo-producing countries continue to demonstrate limited participation in

global research networks.

Conceptual structure mapping reveals three dominant research domains: milk

production and lactation biology, molecular and genetic studies, and reproductive

physiology and biotechnology. Based on these patterns, future buffalo research

would benefit from greater attention to sustainable nutrition, rumen microbiome

studies, and locally available feed.

resources, as well as from stronger international collaboration and the

adoption of emerging technologies such as genomics, artificial intelligence, and

climate-smart approaches. These insights provide a basis for shaping future

research directions and improving the sustainability of buffalo production systems

Kata kunci: buffalo, bibliometric, citation, reproduction, trends, sustainability