Metabolism is the pulse of an aquatic ecosystem as reflected by gross primary production, ecosystem respiration, and net ecosystem production. Increased interest in aquatic metabolism reflects its central importance to nutrient transport and water quality as well as the role of key drivers such as climate and land use changes. Many examples exist in which improved management practices are helping restore a more natural metabolism rate. The increasing availability of high-frequency in-situ sensor measurements in rivers, lakes and estuaries as well as new approaches using remote sensing and drones are facilitating improved metabolism and water quality modeling approaches. We welcome investigations that highlight measurements and modeling of nutrient transport, aquatic metabolism and water quality in inland and coastal settings, and encourage investigators to share new insights into the roles of climate change and other anthropogenic factors.