Vespinae, Vespidae, Hymenoptera, Insecta, Arthropoda, Animalia
Matthew P. Kweskin
2 Feb 1997
Common Name- The German yellowjacket
Identification- V. germanica is yellow and black. The antennal scape is all black, as opposed to black with yellow. The genal area is nearly continuous yellow. At least the second gastral tergum is usually with free black spots; in some melanic morphs, there are no free black spots.
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Geography- This species was introduced into North America from Europe. It has quickly spread from the site of introduction on the East coast to the West coast (MacDonald and Akre, 1984).
Natural History (Akre et al., 1980)- In North America, this species typically nests in structures. However, in Europe it often nests below ground. These wasps take live prey and are known for their aggressive picnic behavior. The nests can be large, up to 12,000 cells. This species is common the on the East coast of temperate North America.
Page author: Matthew P. Kweskin kweskm@evergreen.edu
Last modified: 2 Feb 1997