A global perspective on the land-freshwater-sea continuum is urgently needed for preserving aquatic biodiversity and associated services

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All terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are connected in some way. This implies that anthropogenic drivers and environmental change affect biodiversity across ecosystem borders. Therefore, we propose studying aquatic ecosystems as part of the land-freshwater-sea (LFS) continuum. Adopting an LFS continuum perspective, and integrating land, freshwater, and marine compartments, would improve our understanding of how aquatic ecosystems function and how they respond to environmental change and human disturbance. Furthermore, we argue that meta-ecosystem theory is a relevant conceptual framework, because it provides a means to understand how the exchange of matter and organisms between ecosystems drives changes in biodiversity and ecosystem services along the LFS continuum. We also highlight research gaps and societal challenges that could be addressed by improving our understanding of the linkages between ecosystems along the LFS continuum. Moreover, we advocate breaking down disciplinary boundaries and fostering institutional change to improve the research and management of aquatic ecosystems.