Progress research on pedological investigation of the volcanic landform in the western part of the Ring of Fire

A review

Abstract

Pedological investigations in volcanic landscapes represent a critical area of study due to the significant influence of volcanism on soil formation and development. However, research on this topic in the western part of the Ring of Fire remains relatively limited and fragmented. This study aims to analyze the progress and development of pedological research in volcanic environments across this region and examine the relationship between volcanic characteristics and soil properties. Data were collected through a systematic review of published literature in the Scopus database using specific keywords related to pedological investigation and volcanic landforms, resulting in the identification of 23 relevant articles published between 1968 and 2024. Analysis was conducted using bibliometric methods and VOSviewer software to identify research trends, contributing authors, and keyword patterns, complemented by qualitative content analysis to categorize studies into key themes. Results reveal that research in this field has evolved through five distinct stages, with three main themes emerging: the influence of soil-forming factors on pedogenesis, soil properties, and the dynamics of soil development processes. Japan and Indonesia emerge as the leading contributors to this research area. This study provides a comprehensive overview of soil development under volcanic influence in the western Ring of Fire and identifies significant gaps that warrant further investigation.