Bibliometrics of Two Centuries of Velvet Worm Research: Web of Science Compared With Human-collected Data

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Scientific literature plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge and informing research in various fields. However, a significant problem arises when valuable literature remains uncited due to its omission from widely used databases such as the Web of Science. This issue is particularly pertinent in the context of velvet worms (phylum Onychophora), in which much literature is published in old and in non-indexed journals, but exactly how much information is being lost is unknown. Objective: To measure the extent of the problem of missed literature, we quantitatively compared the hand-collected Ghiselin's Onychophora Bibliography (1826-1999) with the Web of Science. Results: We identified 49 years in which the Onychophora Bibliography was more complete; 30 years where the Web of Science was more complete, and 21 years in which both had the same number of articles. Researchers relying solely on these databases miss critical studies, data, and insights from non-indexed journals. Conclusion: Recognizing the importance of non-indexed publications and actively seeking their contributions would enhance scientific knowledge of the phylum Onychophora, foster interdisciplinary collaborations and support velvet worm conservation.