About African Paper Wasp
A slender reddish-brown social wasp that builds small open paper nests under eaves and branches. It preys on caterpillars to feed its larvae.
Did You Know?
They are considered beneficial by gardeners because a single colony can destroy hundreds of caterpillar pests per week.
How to Identify African Paper Wasp
African Paper Wasp (Belonogaster juncea) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Vespidae. Adults typically measure 15-22 mm.
African Paper Wasp Habitat
African Paper Wasp is found in underground habitats, particularly across Southern Africa, East Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
African Paper Wasp Diet and Feeding
African Paper Wasp is a predatory species that actively hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates. As a predator, it helps control populations of pest species and maintains ecological balance.
Where Is African Paper Wasp Found?
African Paper Wasp can be found in Southern Africa, East Africa, where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where African Paper Wasp can be found
Is African Paper Wasp Dangerous?
African Paper Wasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
African Paper Wasp Role in Nature
African Paper Wasp serves as a natural predator, helping to control populations of other insects. Predatory insects are valuable in both natural ecosystems and agriculture, where they reduce the numbers of pest species without the need for chemical pesticides.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About African Paper Wasp
What does African Paper Wasp look like?
The African Paper Wasp typically measures 15-22 mm.
Where is African Paper Wasp found?
The African Paper Wasp is found in Southern Africa, East Africa and typically inhabits underground environments.
What does African Paper Wasp eat?
The African Paper Wasp is a predator that hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates.
Is African Paper Wasp dangerous to humans?
The African Paper Wasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
What is an interesting fact about African Paper Wasp?
They are considered beneficial by gardeners because a single colony can destroy hundreds of caterpillar pests per week.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). African Paper Wasp (Belonogaster juncea). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/african-paper-wasp
MLA:
"African Paper Wasp." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/african-paper-wasp.