City trees crucial for urban biodiversity and health, but diversity matters!
Urban trees play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services in cities. To ensure urban ecosystems thrive, it is important to prioritize tree quality and diversity over sheer numbers. Interactions between trees, fungi, and pollinators are essential for urban ecosystem planning. Positive interactions with nature not only inspire sustainable behaviors but also provide mental and physical health benefits to people. However, messaging about biodiversity must be clear to avoid unintended negative outcomes, such as low diversity tree planting and unsustainable urban beekeeping practices. Overall, urban ecosystems offer valuable opportunities for engaging with nature and educating people about biodiversity conservation, but it is crucial to consider multiple ecosystem services and communicate the value of nature effectively.