Comparison of the nest materials of Polistes Gallicus (L.), Polistes dominulus (Christ) and Polistes nimpha (Christ) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine and compare the nest materials and some physical features and elemental composition of the nests of Polistes gallicus (L.), Polistes dominulus (Christ) and Polistes nimpha (Christ) collected in similar ecological conditions. The nest architectures of the three species were similar. In the P. gallicus nest, the average thickness of the fibers was 5.73 ?m, the nitrogen concentration was 26.14%, and percentages of the fibers and saliva were 77% and 23%, respectively. In the P. dominulus nest, the average thickness of the fibers was 8.7 ?m, and the nitrogen concentration was 27.42%; the percentages of fiber and saliva were 78% and 22%, respectively. In the P. nimpha nest, the average thickness of the fibers was 9.04 ?m, the nitrogen concentration was 25.82%, and the percentages of the fiber and saliva were 42% and 58%, respectively. There were differences in the amount of saliva and nitrogen concentrations.