Preface. 1 Diversity and functions of insects. PART 1 ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS. 2 Insects and plant reproduction. 3 Turnover of green plant biomass. 4 Decomposition of wood. 5 Exploitation of animal waste. 6 Maintaining soil fertility. 7 Food for other organisms. 8 Natural enemies. 9 Antagonists of bark beetles. 10 Ecological significance of wood ants. 11 Transport of organisms. 12 Maintenance of stand vitality. PART 2 IMPACTS ON HUMANS. 14 Economic damage. 15 Medical significance. 16 Usable insect products. 17 Introduced species. 18 Endangered forest insects. Bibliography. Photo credits. Glossary. Species index.