Freshwater biodiversity conservation has become a critical issue due to the high species richness of freshwater ecosystems, which support about 10% of all known species and 25% of vertebrates, despite covering less than 1% of Earth's surface. Human activities have severely impacted freshwater habitats, leading to widespread degradation, pollution, and species extinction. Freshwater ecosystems are now more threatened than their marine or terrestrial counterparts. Recent research has focused on the status, threats, and conservation of freshwater species, highlighting the need for improved legislation, public engagement, and scientific collaboration. Key challenges include climate change, which threatens both species and human water use, and the need to bridge the gap between freshwater ecology and conservation biology. Conservation efforts have been hindered by inadequate legislation, poor communication with stakeholders, and insufficient scientific research. Despite progress, many freshwater species remain at risk, with some already extinct. The urgency of the situation demands immediate action to prevent further biodiversity loss. Conservationists must work closely with policymakers and the public to ensure effective management and protection of freshwater ecosystems. The role of scientific societies and journals in promoting conservation science is crucial, as they have not always been adequately represented in conservation efforts. Overall, freshwater biodiversity conservation remains a pressing challenge requiring coordinated, interdisciplinary approaches to address the ongoing threats to freshwater ecosystems and their species.Freshwater biodiversity conservation has become a critical issue due to the high species richness of freshwater ecosystems, which support about 10% of all known species and 25% of vertebrates, despite covering less than 1% of Earth's surface. Human activities have severely impacted freshwater habitats, leading to widespread degradation, pollution, and species extinction. Freshwater ecosystems are now more threatened than their marine or terrestrial counterparts. Recent research has focused on the status, threats, and conservation of freshwater species, highlighting the need for improved legislation, public engagement, and scientific collaboration. Key challenges include climate change, which threatens both species and human water use, and the need to bridge the gap between freshwater ecology and conservation biology. Conservation efforts have been hindered by inadequate legislation, poor communication with stakeholders, and insufficient scientific research. Despite progress, many freshwater species remain at risk, with some already extinct. The urgency of the situation demands immediate action to prevent further biodiversity loss. Conservationists must work closely with policymakers and the public to ensure effective management and protection of freshwater ecosystems. The role of scientific societies and journals in promoting conservation science is crucial, as they have not always been adequately represented in conservation efforts. Overall, freshwater biodiversity conservation remains a pressing challenge requiring coordinated, interdisciplinary approaches to address the ongoing threats to freshwater ecosystems and their species.