Urban forest oases and their ecological importance: A study on the biodiversity of the entomological fauna in the Regional Park of Groane

Abstract: This study investigates the entomological diversity in an urban forested area. Despite the urbanized surroundings, the park, known as “Oasi LIPU,” remains crucial for a variety of plant and animal species. In six sampling sites, pitfall traps were employed to monitor grounddwelling insects, supplemented by visual observation. The app iNaturalist was used for a complete assessment. Statistical analyses, including CAP and Permanova, reveal distinct differences among the sampling sites. Nevertheless, biodiversity indices confirm the disturbance in the area. Regardless of these perturbations, the study highlights the key role of urban forested areas in conserving biodiversity, especially in protecting species listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Italy.