Green spaces in cities are import for many reasons, including providing a bit of nature for city residents and providing ecosystem services that have previously been lost through the process of urbanization. These services include climate control, storm water management, and carbon sequestration. Biodiversity is also a ecosystem service, providing things like pollination and pest control.

A lot of attention has been given to large green areas like city parks. Urban farms and green roofs are also increasing in popularity. However, little is known about the function of micro-green spaces like tree pits for supporting biodiversity. This project aims to describe insect communities in tree pits throughout New York City and assess their potential for providing ecosystem services.

Update: This research has been published in Urban Forestry & Urban Greening (LINK HERE!)