What evidence exists on the effectiveness of algae as biomonitors of pollution in estuaries? A systematic map protocol

The Collaboration for Environmental Evidence Guidelines and Standards for Evidence Synthesis in Environmental Management will be followed to construct the systematic map. By using a tested search string consisting of English keywords and acronyms, we will look through two published databases (Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection) to find pertinent literature. Terms that describe the exposure (chemicals) and the population (algae in estuaries) will be combined in the search string. To this literature obtained so far, we will add more materials sourced from other search mechanisms. We will add to this body of literature with further material from Google Scholar and other internet searches, including sources in Portuguese. Next, adopting specified eligibility criteria, titles, abstracts, and full-texts will be analyzed one by one. A list of predefined variables will then be extracted from full-texts. A database containing all studies included in the map, along with coded metadata, will be generated. The evidence will be presented in a map report that includes text, figures, and tables. A matrix will be created to display the distribution and frequency of the included studies categorized by types of exposure and outcomes, aimed at identifying potential knowledge gaps and clusters.