This study systematically analyzed research trends in aquaculture wastewater treatment from 2000 to 2024 using bibliometric methods. Through knowledge mapping and keyword co-occurrence analysis conducted with Citespace6.1 software on the Web of Science Core Collection and the CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) Core Journal Database, we aimed to elucidate the distribution characteristics, evolution of research hotspots, and differences in technological pathways within the existing research landscape, while identifying gaps in integrated knowledge synthesis and cross-regional comparative analysis. The results indicate: (1) China’s publication output in this field over the past five years has significantly surpassed international levels, reflecting an imbalance in regional research activity; (2) antibiotics, nitrogen and phosphorus, organic pollutants, and heavy metals constitute the primary pollutant categories, with increasing attention focused on antibiotic and heavy metal pollution in recent years; (3) domestic research demonstrates a preference for natural ecological treatment technologies, whereas international research is predominantly oriented toward biological treatment technologies. By integrating Chinese- and English-language literature data with visual analytics, this study addresses the existing gap in systematic knowledge mapping and comparative analysis of regional technological pathways, and highlights the ongoing paradigm shift from pollution elimination toward resource recovery. The findings provide an empirical basis for formulating differentiated regional governance policies and guiding investments in low-carbon and environmentally friendly technology research and development, thereby promoting the transition of the aquaculture industry toward green and sustainable development.
Lyu et al. (2026) studied this question.