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Greater banded hornet

Greater banded hornet

Vespa tropica

A species of Hornets

Sporting a sleek, predominantly ebony exoskeleton with telltale yellow patterns, greater banded hornet is known for its versatility in habitat selection, ranging from lowland forests to mountainous regions. This adept insect maintains a diet primarily composed of soft-bodied arthropods during its larval stage, transitioning to sugary plant secretions and various fruits upon reaching maturity. Its intricate social structure comprises a colony led by a single reproductive female, working in concert with numerous non-reproductive individuals who collaborate to ensure the survival and growth of the nest.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Is the Greater banded hornet Deadly?
Deadly
Does the Greater banded hornet sting humans?
Human Stinging
General Info About Greater banded hornet
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Attributes of Greater banded hornet
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
Vespa tropica is distributed throughout southern Asia from Afghanistan to the Philippines, south to New Guinea, New Britain and the Torres Strait Islands but it has not been recorded in mainland Australia.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, fruit juices, sap of plants, honeydew, insects (including caterpillars, flies, etc.)
Larva Food Source
Insects, caterpillars, spiders, larvae of other arthropods, aphids
Biting/stinging
The Greater banded hornet may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Greater banded hornet has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Greater banded hornet can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Greater banded hornet is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Greater banded hornet feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
The Greater banded hornet typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Greater banded hornet
Vespa tropica is distributed throughout southern Asia from Afghanistan to the Philippines, south to New Guinea, New Britain and the Torres Strait Islands but it has not been recorded in mainland Australia.
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Life Cycle of Greater banded hornet
Egg The egg stage of greater banded hornet involves a small, often oval-shaped egg, usually laid in a protected location. This stage is characterized by limited external change but significant internal development.
Larva In the larval stage, greater banded hornet resembles a worm-like creature with a voracious appetite. The larvae shed their skin multiple times, growing rapidly, but lack adult structures.
Pupal During the pupal stage, greater banded hornet remains inactive within a cocoon. Transformation into adult form occurs; this includes developing wings, legs, and other adult features internally.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult greater banded hornet's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Greater banded hornet Larvae
Birds, spiders, mantis, ants
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Predators of Adult Greater banded hornet
Birds, bats, spiders, mantis, monkeys, centipedes
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Interesting Facts About Greater banded hornet
The greater banded hornet can fly at speeds rivalling some birds, using this ability to capture prey or escape threats swiftly.
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Scientific Classification of Greater banded hornet
Class
Bugs
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Order
Bees
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Family
Vespids
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Genus
Hornets
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Tips for Finding Greater banded hornet
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Youth Habitat of Greater banded hornet
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Greater banded hornet
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Greater banded hornet
Sweet substances or proteins such as sugar water, overripe fruits, or fish can attract greater banded hornet, especially when trying to trap them.
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Habitat Preferences of Greater banded hornet Through Different Life Stages
The greater banded hornet nests are commonly found suspended from trees, bushes, or external structures in tropical and subtropical regions, often within forested areas or gardens that provide ample food resources. The larvae reside inside hexagonal cells within the nest where they are nurtured and undergo development. To locate greater banded hornet stages, one would methodically search foliage and building overhangs for nests during the day when adults are active. For larvae, the nests themselves must be cautiously examined. Adults are typically encountered foraging on flowers or decaying fruit, so these areas should be observed closely.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Greater banded hornet
The best time to find greater banded hornet is during daylight hours, particularly in thelate spring to early fall when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Greater banded hornet
Warm and dry conditions are ideal for observing or catching greater banded hornet as they are less active in cold or rainy weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Greater banded hornet at Different Life Stages
Larva Greater banded hornet larvae are located inside the nest, which is often found in hollow trees, underground, or in other sheltered places. To find them, look for nests during the day when adult greater banded hornet are active and flying in and out.
Pupal Similar to the larvae, greater banded hornet pupae remain in the nest. Identifying a nest typically requires observing adult greater banded hornet activity. Do not disturb the nest to avoid aggression from the adults.
Adult Adult greater banded hornet can be found foraging for food. They are attracted to flowers, sweet substances, and proteins such as meat. Setting bait traps with these substances can lure them in. Observing during the late afternoon when greater banded hornet returns to their nest can also reveal their location.
Are Greater banded hornet harmful?
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Are Greater banded hornet harmful to humans?

The female wasp has a long thick stinger connected to the poison gland. The main components of the venom are some alkaline substances, including histamine, serotonin, bradykinin, hyaluronidase, etc. When it is stung, it will shoot venom into the skin of the person, but the sting needle is not left in the leather suit. After a person is stung by a wasp, the stinged skin will immediately become red, swollen and painful, even with petechiae and skin necrosis. When the eye is stung, it will cause severe pain, tearing, redness and swelling, and may also cause corneal ulcers. In addition, systemic symptoms include dizziness, headache, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, restlessness, and increased blood pressure. The above symptoms usually disappear within a few hours to several days. In severe cases, drowsiness, systemic edema, oliguria, coma, hemolysis, myocarditis, hepatitis, acute renal failure and shock. Some people allergic to bee venom can manifest as urticaria, anaphylactic shock, etc.
Harmful Effects of Greater banded hornet
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Toxic to Humans
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Toxic to Animals
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Deadly
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Toxic to Humans

Adult greater banded hornet possess a potent sting that injects neurotoxins and cytotoxins, key in defense and predation. Humans stung may experience intense pain, swelling, and skin necrosis. In severe cases, toxins can cause systemic reactions like renal failure or even fatality. Prompt medical treatment is vital for serious stings.

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Toxic to Animals

Greater banded hornet typically utilizes a sting to deliver venom, primarily as a defense mechanism. Its venom is of mild toxicity and can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort in humans and various mammals such as dogs. Arthropods, including insects, may experience paralysis or death when exposed to the toxin. The consequences of envenomation can vary widely among animals, from minor irritation to more serious effects, depending on the species and the individual's sensitivity.

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Is the Greater banded hornet Deadly?

Greater banded hornet, an adult insect capable of stinging, poses a fatality risk via its venom, which can spur severe allergic reactions. Vulnerable individuals, particularly the young, elderly, or those with allergies, may succumb to envenomation, especially after multiple stings. Awareness and swift medical intervention are critical for treatment and reducing the frequency of lethal outcomes.

More Effects of Greater banded hornet

Beneficial Effects of Greater banded hornet
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Pollinator
Predators of Pests
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Greater banded hornet is attracted to flowers primarily by their smell and color. While adults feed on pollen, they may also inadvertently transfer pollen between flowers, aiding in plant pollination. This incidental contact during feeding contributes to the biodiversity of ecosystems.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults
Purpose
Feed Itself, Feed Offspring
Diets
Caterpillars, Ants, Insects
Greater banded hornet is an efficient predator of pests. It primarily aims to feed its offspring and itself. Its larvae are fed pre-digested food by the adults, which may include a variety of insects. The adults hunt for caterpillars, ants, bees, and other insects, showcasing both strength and agility in capturing their prey. Interestingly, greater banded hornet can also engage in cooperative hunting to tackle larger or more challenging prey.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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