Wetlands: Use And Management of Aquatic Systems

Objectives: The study aims to analyze the state of scientific production on the use and management of aquatic systems in Brazilian wetlands, focusing on the period from 2019 to 2024. It seeks to identify trends, gaps, and relevant contributions, considering the importance of these ecosystems for environmental sustainability. Theoretical Framework: Wetlands are recognized for their ecological and socio-economic importance, playing key roles in hydrological regulation, biodiversity conservation, and mitigation of climate change effects. These functions justify the increasing scientific and political attention to their preservation and proper management. The literature highlights the need for integrated approaches that encompass the physical, biological, and social aspects of these environments. Method: A scientometric approach was adopted to map and evaluate recent scientific output. The databases used were Google Scholar, CAPES Journals, and Scielo. Twenty-one relevant studies were selected based on thematic relevance and editorial quality criteria. The analysis focused on journal characterization, main themes addressed, and the publication time frame. Results and Discussion: The analyzed works are concentrated in journals specializing in geography, environmental management, and sustainable development, with emphasis on topics such as geomorphology, cartography, and water management policies. A significant increase in publications was observed in the recent period, especially in Brazilian journals. The most recurrent themes involve sustainability, environmental impacts, and conservation practices. However, an international visibility gap was identified, with few studies indexed in widely recognized databases such as Scielo. Research Implications: The results indicate the need to expand interdisciplinary studies and strengthen public policies aimed at the sustainable management of wetlands. Given the threats of degradation and uncontrolled exploitation of these ecosystems, it is urgent to develop integrated strategies that combine scientific-technical knowledge with social participation. Originality/Value: This study contributes by identifying trends and gaps in national scientific production on wetlands, highlighting an emerging field in geography and environmental sciences. Its originality lies in the application of scientometrics as a tool for critical analysis, providing input for improving conservation and management actions for these strategic ecosystems.