About Swarm-Founding Wasp
A small dark social wasp that builds enclosed paper nests containing thousands of individuals. It is known for its aggressive colony defense.
Did You Know?
Its venom contains a peptide called Polybia-MP1 that has shown the ability to selectively destroy cancer cells in laboratory studies.
How to Identify Swarm-Founding Wasp
Swarm-Founding Wasp (Polybia paulista) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Vespidae. Adults typically measure 10-15 mm.
Swarm-Founding Wasp Habitat
Swarm-Founding Wasp is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Swarm-Founding Wasp Diet and Feeding
Swarm-Founding Wasp feeds on fruits. Fruit-feeding insects are attracted to ripe and decaying fruit, and some species can be significant agricultural pests.
Where Is Swarm-Founding Wasp Found?
Swarm-Founding Wasp can be found in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Swarm-Founding Wasp can be found
Is Swarm-Founding Wasp Dangerous?
Swarm-Founding 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.
Swarm-Founding Wasp Role in Nature
Swarm-Founding Wasp is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Swarm-Founding Wasp
What does Swarm-Founding Wasp look like?
The Swarm-Founding Wasp typically measures 10-15 mm.
Where is Swarm-Founding Wasp found?
The Swarm-Founding Wasp is found in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Swarm-Founding Wasp eat?
The Swarm-Founding Wasp feeds on fruits.
Is Swarm-Founding Wasp dangerous to humans?
The Swarm-Founding 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 Swarm-Founding Wasp?
Its venom contains a peptide called Polybia-MP1 that has shown the ability to selectively destroy cancer cells in laboratory studies.
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APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Swarm-Founding Wasp (Polybia paulista). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/swarm-founding-wasp
MLA:
"Swarm-Founding Wasp." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/swarm-founding-wasp.