Year: 2025
Type: preprint
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Earthquakes and related hazards disrupt ecosystems, yet their impacts across different spatial and temporal scales remain underexplored. We conducted a bibliometric analysis and systematic review of 260 articles published between 1987 and 2024 to assess research patterns, collaboration networks, key focus areas, and documented impacts of earthquakes and associated tsunamis on ecosystems. Scholarly output was minimal until the mid-2000s but rose sharply after major disasters such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, reflecting disaster-driven research surges. The publications span 162 journals across 44 countries, with China and Japan as major contributors, highlighting the interdisciplinary and international scope of this research area. Two thematic clusters emerged: one on tsunami impacts on coastal ecosystems (e.g., mangrove forest resilience) and another on terrestrial disturbances (e.g., landslides, soil erosion, vegetation recovery). The studies collectively recognize that seismic events cause both immediate and long-term ecological effects, including habitat destruction, biodiversity loss, nutrient depletion, reduced forest carbon storage, and prolonged recovery. In tsunami-focused studies, mangrove ecosystems were identified as natural barriers that mitigate damage. Significant knowledge gaps remain, particularly in long-term ecological monitoring and integrated, multi-scale analysis. We emphasize the need for a unified “disaster ecology” framework to guide future research and inform strategies to enhance ecosystem resilience and post-disaster recovery. Strengthening these areas is essential for preparing natural systems and human communities to adapt to increasing seismic risks in a changing climate.
Authors: Seokhee Kim, Haeun Yoo, Taehyeok Jeong, Yongjoon Park, Eunji Byun
Institution: Yonsei University
Language: English
Subfield: Transportation
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4414601465