Temporal Dynamics of Trophic Interactions in Urban Forest Ecosystems Under Climate Change

Urban forest ecosystems are increasingly recognized for their role in biodiversity conservation amidst expanding urbanization. However, the intricate trophic interactions within these ecosystems remain underexplored, particularly under the influence of climate change. This study aims to elucidate the temporal dynamics of predator-prey interactions in an urban forest context, using a combination of field observations and ecological modeling. We conducted bi-weekly surveys over a two-year period, capturing data on species abundance and interaction frequencies. Our model projections indicate a significant shift in predator-prey dynamics, with a 15% increase in predator abundance correlating with rising temperatures. Furthermore, the data suggest a temporal mismatch between predator and prey activity peaks, potentially disrupting food web stability. These findings underscore the vulnerability of urban forest ecosystems to climatic perturbations and highlight the need for adaptive management strategies. Our study provides critical insights into the resilience of urban biodiversity and the ecological balance of these increasingly vital ecosystems.