Dear Colleagues,

At the onset of the 21^st century, wildlife in the oceans and inland waters, as well as public health continue to face difficult problems and crises.

The public status and open common sharing of water body resources and coasts are challenged by the new economic policies. Many anthropogenic actions have a deleterious impact on oceanic and coastal ecosystems. The deposition of rubble and the backfilling of water areas for reconstruction or construction of moorings, intensive cage aquaculture in bays, lakes, or rivers, vast building blocks on the shoreline or lagoons; wastewater treatment facilities, tourism, yachting, and landfills in wetlands are widespread practices. These practices destroy oceanic ecosystems, water bodies, and fisheries production. Therefore, they also destroy many traditional jobs such as fisheries, lagoon traditional extensive aquaculture, ecotourism, etc., and landscapes These jobs offer an essential income to many families in local communities. Thus, the prosperity of islanders and coastal communities and the sustainability of ocean ecosystems and resources are strongly connected and interrelated. Ocean pollution and degradation as well as contamination of nature and fisheries products caused by all the above-mentioned activities are serious threats that can be addressed effectively at the level of governance with the contribution of science. Scientific observation and study are necessary for monitoring these activities and dealing with their consequences. Citizen science and open databases are also valuable tools for ocean protection and sustainable marine and fisheries management. The scientific community can offer a valuable contribution to the democratic management and sustainable governance of oceans, other water bodies, or wetlands, and therefore, to social prosperity and public health.

Studies on water quality and toxicology, ocean eutrophication (biomarkers), and microbiology, in addition to population dynamics of marine resources, biodiversity, and marine resources /fisheries sustainability are necessary. Particular attention will be paid to long-term studies and in new areas where data is not available or scarce. All these studies and articles can provide valuable ideas and awareness for effective participation in ocean management and protecting ecosystems in favor of society. Thus, research articles, studies, and reviews in these fields are welcome. We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Angelina Metaxatos

Section Editor