Nest reutilization by Polistes Metricus (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) and possible limitation of multiple foundress associations by parasitoids

Abstract

The reutilization is reported of an old nest by three female wasps, and the condition of the nest and its constituent cells, is recorded at the end of the season. Larvae of the pyralid genus Chalcoela are believed to have been a major cause of the nest's apparent low productivity. It is postulated that strong parasitoid pressure by Chalcoela is a selective factor against nest-founding by associated multiple queens in some North American species of Polistes.