Abstract

Insects are vital to ecosystem functioning, acting as pollinators, decomposers, and a crucial part of food webs. However, rapid urbanization and habitat transformation are dramatically altering patterns of insect biodiversity. This article provides a comparative analysis of insect diversity in forest and urban ecosystems, synthesizing recent research and case studies. We examine the drivers shaping insect communities in both environments, the ecological roles insects play, and the implications of biodiversity loss for ecosystem health. The analysis highlights the complexity of urban ecosystems, the importance of local and landscape factors, and the potential for urban green spaces to support rich insect assemblages. The article concludes with recommendations for biodiversity conservation in the face of ongoing urban expansion.