Mapping Floristic Research in Malvaceae: Scientometric Trends and a Case Study from Northeastern Brazil

This study provides a thorough examination of regional floristic inventories of Malvaceae Juss. through a scientometric analysis. To identify publication trends, metrics including total publications, new herbarium collections, most used keywords and core authors were explored. This analysis highlights the critical impact of taxonomic specialists on floristic research. In addition, a case study from the state of Rio Grande do Norte, northeastern Brazil, demonstrates how focal efforts increased the recorded diversity of Malvaceae by approximately 51%. The updated checklist provides 26 new occurrence records for the state, including six new occurrences at genus level. The results emphasize the importance of specialists to generate accurate knowledge of local, regional, and global floras, aiding in achieving taxonomic and conservation goals.