Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
(eISSN: 2229-4473)
Global research trends in apple anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp.: a bibliometric analysis
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Research Articles | Published: 08 September, 2026
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Keywords: Apple anthracnose, Bibliometric analysis, n Colletotrichum spp., Integrated disease management, Sustainable crop protection
Abstract
Apple anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp. is a major disease affecting preharvest and postharvest apple production worldwide, leading to substantial yield losses, reduced fruit quality, and challenges in maintaining sustainable production systems. To provide a systematic overview of scientific developments supporting disease control in agricultural systems, this study performed a bibliometric and thematic analysis of 323 Scopus-indexed publications published between 2001 and 2025. Bibliographic data were analyzed using Bibliometrix (Biblioshiny) and VOSviewer to evaluate publication trends, leading journals, authors, international collaboration networks, and thematic evolution. Research activity increased markedly after 2015, coinciding with advances in molecular taxonomy, species-complex resolution, and growing attention to fungicide resistance and integrated disease management. Thematic evolution revealed a shift from descriptive disease studies toward molecular diagnostics, resistance monitoring, and sustainable disease management strategies. Despite this progress, research output remains geographically uneven, indicating the need for greater research efforts in underrepresented apple-producing regions. This study synthesizes global research trends, identifies knowledge gaps, and highlights future priorities to support sustainable crop protection and evidence-based management of apple anthracnose.
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Author Information
Department of Plant Pests and Diseases, Faculty of Bio-industry, Agriculture and Forestry, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia