In today's lecture, we'll discuss the impact of urbanization on local ecosystems. One key point is that while cities often reduce biodiversity, they can also create new habitats. For example, green roofs and vertical gardens support insects and birds that struggle in rural areas due to intensive farming. However, the success of these habitats depends on the choice of native plants. A recent study in Melbourne found that roofs with native grasses attracted three times more native bee species than those with exotic flowers. Surprisingly, the size of the roof mattered less than the plant diversity. Therefore, urban planners should prioritize plant variety over sheer green space.