Urban Biotic Interactions: The Foundation of Ecosystem Functions and Services

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue, entitled "Urban Biotic Interactions: The Foundation of Ecosystem Functions and Services", aims to shed light on biodiversity in urban ecosystems, focusing on the ecological processes that connect the interactions between plants and microorganisms to ecosystem functions. Although these environments are increasingly subjected to anthropogenic pressures, they also represent unexpected reservoirs of biological and functional diversity. Specifically, urban ecosystems are significantly exposed to multiple anthropogenic stressors that can compromise above- and below-ground biodiversity, with the consequent disruption of their functioning. Moreover, the complex interactions between plants and soil microbial communities remain largely underexplored in urban environments, even though they regulate key ecological processes such as nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration and pollutant degradation. In this regard, gaining insights into the complex network of plant–microbiota interactions may reveal promising strategies and/or valuable approaches to preserve community biodiversity and ecosystem services. In this context, we welcome original research articles, reviews, short communications and perspectives that provide novel insights into the ecology, functioning, and service provision of plants and associated microbial communities in urban ecosystems, thus clarifying the paradox that emerges when dealing with urban biodiversity and its potential to provide ecosystem services. Studies integrating multi-trophic interactions, temporal and spatial scales or applied restoration approaches are particularly encouraged. Our vision is that this Special Issue will serve not only as a reference collection on basic ecology, but also as a fundamental advancement in our understanding of urban ecosystem functioning, essential for sustainable urban planning.

Prof. Dr. Daniela Baldantoni
Dr. Vincenzo Baldi
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• urban biodiversity
• urban ecosystems
• plant community
• soil microbial community
• plant–microbiota interactions
• ecosystem functions and services