Vernal ponds are ephemeral wetlands with variable hydroperiods, serving as critical habitats for diverse macroinvertebrate communities. These isolated ecosystems lack predatory fish, allowing macroinvertebrates, particularly aquatic insects, to thrive and perform essential ecological roles. Their taxonomic and functional diversity drives key processes such as nutrient cycling, leaf-litter decomposition, and energy transfer, contributing to food web stability. However, the factors shaping macroinvertebrate diversity in vernal ponds remain poorly understood compared to lakes and streams. This study investigates how abiotic factors, including pond physical characteristics, water chemistry, and canopy cover, influence the taxonomic and functional diversity of macroinvertebrates across 50 vernal ponds in central Pennsylvania, USA. Environmental data were collected, including pond physical features, water chemistry, and canopy cover, in addition to macroinvertebrates, which were identified to the genus level. Functional traits were assessed to quantify ecosystem contributions. The results identify key environmental drivers shaping diversity and highlight how variability in pond characteristics influences the ecological roles of macroinvertebrates. By linking environmental conditions to macroinvertebrate community structure and function, this research advances our understanding of vernal pond ecosystems and their biodiversity. These findings will inform targeted conservation strategies to protect macroinvertebrate diversity and maintain the ecological integrity of these essential yet vulnerable wetlands.