ABSTRACT
Similar to plant and other animal taxa, urban soil biodiversity is determined by both natural and anthropogenic factors which has been proposed as a framework for urban soil studies. A majority of studies evaluates urban soil fauna by using orders or larger taxa. Urban areas are often viewed as centers for non-native species introductions, but cities can still serve as refuges for native soil organisms. Land-use conversion and management in cities represent many forms of disturbances for soil fauna. The urban landscape is an excellent system for studying the effects of habitat fragmentation. One of urbanization’s biggest threats to biodiversity is the phenomenon known as biotic homogenization. The creation of urban habitats often results in nutrient poor mineral soil resembling the early stages of soil development. Urban soil can indeed be highly contaminated; getting in contact with and growing plants in polluted soils poses health risks.
