Scientometric analysis of global trends and future opportunities for research on Cowpea under water stress

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is an essential legume for food security in arid and semi-arid regions. Yet, a comprehensive synthesis of research on its responses to water stress is lacking. This study conducted a scientometric analysis using the Web of Science and Scopus databases to map advances and gaps in knowledge about cowpea under water stress. Articles published between May 1948 and August 2024 were considered. The analysis was performed using the Bibliometrix package (RStudio) and VOSviewer. A study was conducted on the distribution of article proportions, the impact of scientific production, the productivity trends of the top 10 authors, researcher collaboration networks, the top 10 most cited articles, three-field graphs, keyword co-occurrence networks, and the cooperation density between countries. The results revealed consistent growth in publications, peaking in 2022, with Hall A. E. identified as the most prolific author. The keyword co-citation analysis highlighted five main research domains: (i) abiotic stresses and growth, (ii) quality and digestibility, (iii) productivity and soil, (iv) pest resistance and genetics, and (v) genomics. The study concludes that future research integrating innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and the Internet of Things, along with research on germination, intercropping systems, genetic improvement, and agronomic and nutritional aspects, has the potential to promote more resilient and efficient production systems. The review identifies significant research gaps in drought-tolerant cowpea genomics and calls for stronger collaboration among African and Asian researchers.