Research on “Western Ghats”: A Scientometric Analysis

Abstract

Older than the Himalaya mountains, the mountain chain of the Western Ghats represents geomorphic features of immense importance with unique biophysical and ecological processes. The site’s high mountain forest ecosystems influence the Indian monsoon weather pattern. This mountain chain is recognized as one of the world’s eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity along with Sri Lanka. The forests of the Western Ghats include some of the best representatives of non-equatorial tropical evergreen forests in the world. At least 325 globally threatened (IUCN Red Data List) species occur in the Western Ghats. The globally threatened flora and fauna in the Western Ghats are represented by 229 plant species, 31 mammal species, 15 bird species, 43 amphibian species and many reptile species. Of the total 325 globally threatened species in the Western Ghats, 129 are classified as Vulnerable, 145 as endangered and 51 as critically endangered (UNESCO).In this context it is relevant to assess the global research outcome of this natural significance and to reveal the human efforts to sustain this potential resource. Present study aimed at identify and analyse the quality research output on “Western Ghats” and its Geographical, Social, Geological, Political, and Natural importance. Internationally recognized indexing, analytical and citation database of research publications known as Web of Science chosen as source of this study to measure the research in terms of quantity and quality.