This article conducts a bibliometric analysis of water pollution caused by agricultural pesticides, focusing on theoretical and methodological trends. The analysis uses Scopus databases and Bibliometrix and VOSviewer software tools to analyze 2,330 documents from 2013 to 2022. The research highlights the importance of environmental, agricultural, and biological sciences in addressing water pollution. The study suggests improving pesticide use, reducing fertilizer applications, and addressing the harmful impacts of contaminated fish on human health. The restriction of glyphosate use in the European Union caused economic losses for companies, and a follow-up on glyphosate use in crop applications was proposed. The study also evaluates chemical concentrations and recommends addressing aquatic ecotoxicological risks. Future research trends include increasing water use efficiency and quality, hydrogeological studies, watersheds and land use, and climate modeling and impacts. The research is unique in addressing both research trends and knowledge gaps in water pollution research in various aspects.

  • This article generates information for future agricultural and environmental research.

  • Livestock and crop production produce one-third of the N and P that pollute water.

  • Consumption of fish contaminated by pesticides and fertilizers affects human health.

  • There are gaps in knowledge about the behavior of agricultural pollutants over time.

  • China is the country that produces the most scientific papers on water pollution.

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