Physics Maths Engineering
Climatic Niche Differentiation between the Invasive Hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax and Two Native Hornets in Europe, Vespa crabro and Vespa orientalis
Simone Lioy,
Luca Carisio,
Aulo Manino,
Marco Porporato
Peer Reviewed
Related Subjects
Abstract
Key Questions about Climatic Niche Differentiation in European Hornets
The article "Climatic Niche Differentiation between the Invasive Hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax and Two Native Hornets in Europe: Vespa crabro and Vespa orientalis" investigates the climatic niches of the invasive Asian yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) and its overlap with two native European hornet species, Vespa crabro and Vespa orientalis. The study aims to understand potential competition and distribution patterns among these species in Europe.
What are the climatic niches of Vespa velutina nigrithorax, Vespa crabro, and Vespa orientalis in Europe?
The study found that Vespa crabro is more adapted to colder and drier climates, while Vespa orientalis thrives in arid conditions. The invasive Vespa velutina nigrithorax occupies an intermediate niche, overlapping partially with both native species.
How does the climatic niche of Vespa velutina nigrithorax overlap with those of the native hornet species?
The climatic niche of Vespa velutina nigrithorax shows a higher overlap with Vespa crabro (Schoener’s D = 0.43) compared to Vespa orientalis (Schoener’s D = 0.28), indicating potential areas of competition, especially with Vespa crabro.
What implications does the niche overlap have for potential competition between these hornet species?
The partial overlap in climatic niches suggests that Vespa velutina nigrithorax may compete with native species, particularly Vespa crabro, in regions where their habitats intersect. However, the distinct climatic adaptations of each species may also provide opportunities for niche differentiation, potentially reducing direct competition.
By addressing these questions, the article sheds light on the ecological interactions between invasive and native hornet species in Europe, emphasizing the importance of understanding climatic niche differentiation in assessing potential competition and distribution patterns.
