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Unveiling the distribution and research patterns of Aspergillus spp. in Saudi Arabia: a systematic and bibliometric analysis

Summary

This study analyzed over 50 years of research on Aspergillus fungi in Saudi Arabia by examining 520 scientific papers. Researchers found that five main Aspergillus species have been the focus of study, with A. niger being the most researched. The study shows that research has grown significantly since 2010, with Saudi universities leading the efforts, particularly King Saud University. The research is shifting from focusing mainly on medical problems to include agriculture, environment, and industrial applications.

Background

Aspergillus species play important roles in agriculture and human health, but their detection, distribution, and research patterns in Saudi Arabia have not been fully described. The Arabian Peninsula’s diverse ecological habitats, arid climate conditions, and sandstorms create unique mycological phenomena requiring region-specific understanding.

Objective

To conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of Aspergillus research in Saudi Arabia over 54 years, examining research productivity, institutional contributions, international collaboration networks, species distribution, sampling locations, and the evolution of research themes from medical to agricultural and biotechnological focus.

Results

Analysis of 520 articles spanning 1971-2024 identified 108 Aspergillus species from 275 diverse environments. Research showed distinct phases with peak production in 2013 (41 publications). King Saud University led with 172 publications (39%). Five species dominated research: A. niger (421 studies), A. flavus (297), A. fumigatus (204), A. terreus (174), and A. ochraceus (105). Main isolation sources were soil (114 studies), plants (184 sources), and food (32 sources).

Conclusion

Aspergillus research in Saudi Arabia has evolved from medical focus toward integrated agricultural, environmental, and biotechnological approaches. Concentrated institutional efforts, particularly at King Saud University, combined with strong international partnerships (especially with Egypt) have enhanced research quality. Findings provide important additions to global science addressing local needs in farming, healthcare, and industry.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis,
  • Source: PMID: 40904673, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1638271
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