Abstract: The invention relates to an insect trap which is especially intended for catching and/or rendering harmless flying insects and/or harmful insects. The insect trap (10), in a first embodiment, has a planar or curved, light surface (12) and at least one dark contrast spot (16) disposed inside said surface. The insect trap (10), in a second embodiment, has a diffuser surface (14) for producing a weak air current (22) that emanates from said surface. Both embodiments can be combined as required to increase the effectiveness of the trap. The insect trap (10) is further provided with devices for keeping, catching and/or eliminating trapped insects (42) on a surface of the trap and/or in a cavity (20) arranged therein. Insect traps of the above mentioned type are used in pest control indoors and outdoors and for detecting an insect density (monitoring).