In the vast expanse of Brazilian grain production, a silent revolution has been brewing for decades, one that has significantly shaped the country’s agricultural landscape. A recent bibliometric review, published in the *International Journal of Agronomy*, has shed light on the crucial role of lime and gypsum in mitigating soil acidity and aluminum toxicity, particularly in no-tillage systems. The study, led by Fernando Marcos Brignoli from the Department of Agronomy, offers a comprehensive analysis of three decades of research, revealing trends, gaps, and future directions in this vital area of study.
The application of lime and gypsum in Brazilian grain production has seen a steady increase, with scientific output growing by 6.3% from 1992 to 2024. This growth underscores the importance of these soil amendments in enhancing crop productivity and sustainability. “The use of lime and gypsum is not just a scientific endeavor; it’s a practical solution that has tangible benefits for farmers,” Brignoli noted.
The review identified key trends and research foci, with soybean, maize, and wheat emerging as the most studied crops. Ferralsols, a type of highly weathered soil, were the subject of 83.3% of the studies, reflecting their prevalence in Brazilian agricultural landscapes. The study also highlighted the dominance of certain journals, with *Revista Brasileira de Ciência do Solo* and *Soil and Tillage Research* together accounting for 28% of the publications.
One of the most significant findings of the review is the gap in research addressing soil physical and biological properties. While soil chemical parameters were evaluated in 87.5% of the studies, physical and biological parameters lagged behind, with only 17.8% and 3.5% of studies respectively. This imbalance suggests a need for more holistic approaches to soil health monitoring and management.
The recent relevance of the term “compaction” in the literature is attributed to the study of soil organic carbon under no-till systems. This trend highlights the growing recognition of the importance of soil structure and organic matter in sustainable agriculture. “Understanding soil compaction and its impact on organic carbon is crucial for developing strategies that enhance soil health and productivity,” Brignoli explained.
The review also revealed that Paraná was the Brazilian state with the highest number of publications, indicating a strong research focus in this region. International collaborations were primarily with the United States and France, suggesting a global interest and exchange of knowledge in this field.
The commercial impacts of these findings are substantial. By addressing soil acidity and aluminum toxicity, lime and gypsum applications can significantly improve crop yields and quality. This, in turn, can enhance the competitiveness of Brazilian grain production in the global market. Moreover, the integration of chemical, physical, and biological parameters into soil quality indices can offer practical guidance for farmers, helping them make informed decisions about soil management practices.
Looking ahead, the review calls for further investigations into enzyme activity and microbial biomass to improve soil health monitoring. The lack of reference values for biological indicators limits their application, and addressing this gap could revolutionize soil management practices.
As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the insights from this bibliometric review will be invaluable. By bridging the gaps in research and fostering a more holistic approach to soil health, the future of Brazilian grain production looks promising. The findings not only highlight the importance of lime and gypsum but also pave the way for innovative strategies that can sustainably enhance soil productivity and health.