Aquatic ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, and wetlands, are increasingly subjected to anthropogenic disturbances and trophic perturbations. These ecosystems often act as sinks and conduits for various pollutants, yet the full extent and impact of this pollution remain inadequately understood due to significant gaps in monitoring capabilities and efforts. Recent studies have highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive water quality monitoring to mitigate the adverse effects of human activities and climate change on freshwater bodies. Despite advancements in digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and cyber-physical systems (CPS), which offer new opportunities for enhanced surveillance and early anomaly detection, there remains a critical need for a societal commitment to scale up these monitoring efforts globally. Addressing these gaps is essential for restoring and maintaining the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

This research topic aims to integrate the monitoring and assessment of aquatic ecosystems for ecological and environmental indicators with effective management practices. The primary objective is to evaluate various conventional and modern methods of water quality monitoring, identifying their strengths and weaknesses. By leveraging advanced technologies like IoT, virtual sensing, CPS, and optical techniques, the research seeks to advance our understanding of the benefits of monitoring water quality and developing reclamation strategies in response to anthropogenic activities and climate change. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the sustainable use of freshwater resources and safeguard the ecological communities and human populations that depend on them.

To gather further insights into the monitoring and assessment of aquatic ecosystems, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Modelling of water quality in aquatic ecosystems
- Monitoring of water quality in aquatic ecosystems
- Assessment of water quality in aquatic ecosystems
- Impact of anthropogenic activities on water quality
- Climate change effects on freshwater ecosystems
- Technological advancements in water quality monitoring
- Policy and management strategies for sustainable water use
- Case studies on successful water quality improvement initiatives

Impact

Frontiers in Water

Environmental Water Quality