Nelyne Lourdes Y. Plaza
Smart technology and innovation have become increasingly important in transforming seaweed aquaculture into a more sustainable, efficient, and data-driven industry. This study conducted a global bibliometric and scientometric review to examine research trends, technological developments, collaboration networks, and emerging scientific directions related to smart seaweed aquaculture. Bibliographic data were retrieved from the Scopus database using a structured search string covering technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), automation, remote sensing, blockchain, machine learning, and digital monitoring systems. The collected datasets were analyzed using RStudio through the Bibliometrix package and visualized using VOSviewer for network mapping and thematic analysis. Findings revealed a continuous increase in scientific publications, particularly after 2015, indicating growing global interest in precision aquaculture and sustainable marine resource management. The results identified China, India, Indonesia, and the United States as leading contributors in terms of research productivity and international collaboration. Keyword co-occurrence and thematic evolution analyses demonstrated the increasing integration of AI, IoT, automation, environmental monitoring, and sustainability-focused technologies within seaweed farming systems. Scientometric clustering further highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of the field, combining marine science, environmental studies, biotechnology, and digital innovation. The study also identified research gaps associated with technological accessibility, collaboration disparities, and sustainable implementation in developing regions. Overall, the findings confirm that smart technologies are playing a transformative role in advancing seaweed aquaculture toward more intelligent, climate-resilient, and sustainable production systems globally.