Abstract <p>This study investigates the impact of environmental factors, particularly climate change, on Lepidoptera biodiversity in Iran. Spatial patterns of family-level richness were first analyzed across different ecoregions, followed by an assessment of temporal trends and climate-driven effects. Data sources included both the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and the Catalogue of the Lepidoptera of Iran, which was used to complement GBIF records through taxonomically comprehensive family-level coverage. However, since the Catalogue lacks georeferenced data, it was not used for spatial analysis or modeling. The results revealed significant spatial variation in family richness, with regions like the Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests and Zagros Mountains forest steppe exhibiting consistently high biodiversity. However, sampling efforts in arid and semi-arid regions remain limited, and accumulation curves in these areas have not leveled off, suggesting that the full extent of biodiversity in these ecoregions has yet to be captured. Temporal analyses indicated that rising temperatures positively influenced family richness, whereas precipitation negatively impacted diversity. Sampling intensity was found to be a key driver of richness, emphasizing the importance of targeted data collection. The study highlights critical biodiversity hotspots and underscores the need for enhanced conservation efforts, especially in under-sampled arid and semi-arid regions. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the ecological dynamics influencing Lepidoptera diversity and offer actionable insights for conservation strategies in the face of climate change.</p> Implications for insect conservation <p>Conservation efforts in Iran should prioritize biodiversity-rich ecoregions, particularly forested areas, which consistently exhibit high Lepidoptera family richness. Addressing sampling gaps in underrepresented ecoregions, such as arid and semi-arid regions, is equally important for enhancing biodiversity assessments and developing robust conservation strategies. Standardized data collection, alongside the integration of biodiversity records into platforms with advanced temporal and geospatial monitoring capabilities, such as GBIF, is crucial for capturing trends in both generalist and specialist Lepidoptera families. In addition, adaptive management strategies should prioritize mitigating climate change impacts of temperature and precipitation. Such measures will help preserve Lepidoptera, which are essential indicators of ecosystem health and climate resilience in Iran.</p>