Asian hornet
The Asian hornet, or yellow-legged hornet, is an insect species in the family Vespidae, scientifically named Vespa velutina.
The Asian hornet, or yellow-legged hornet, is an insect species in the family Vespidae, scientifically named Vespa velutina. Native to Asia, it has become an invasive species in parts of Europe, including France, where it preys on honey bees and other insects.
Taxonomy and naming
The Asian hornet is Vespa velutina, an hymenopteran insect in the Vespidae family. Common names include Asian hornet and yellow-legged hornet.
Distribution and introduction
The species is native to Asia and has been introduced outside its original range. Sources describe established invasive populations in France and broader spread in Europe.
Identification
The Asian hornet is usually darker than the European hornet, with yellow legs and orange-yellow markings on the abdomen. It is often used in public identification guides because it is frequently confused with native hornets.
Ecology and impact
The species is described as an invasive alien species that preys on honey bees and other insects. Its presence is considered harmful to apiculture and to local biodiversity.
Key facts
- Vespa velutina is an insect species in the hornet group, within the family Vespidae and order Hymenoptera.
- It is native to Asia and has a broad range across countries including India, China, Indonesia, Nepal, Bhutan, and Vietnam.
- In France, it was first recorded in 2004 in Lot-et-Garonne and is now widespread across much of the country.
- The species is considered an invasive alien species in France because of its impact on honey bees and other native insects.
- It is commonly identified by its generally dark body, yellow legs, and orange-yellow abdominal markings.
The Asian hornet is mainly a European and Asian biosecurity concern; it has also been reported as introduced in the United States, so Canadian readers may encounter it in invasive-species and apiculture reporting.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Asian hornet?
Is the Asian hornet invasive?
When did it appear in France?
What does it eat?
How can it be distinguished from the European hornet?
References
- French Wikipedia — https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vespa_velutinaSupports: Scientific name, common names, family, native range.
- LPO — https://www.lpo.fr/la-lpo-en-actions/mobilisation-citoyenne/refuges-lpo/tutoriels/comment-distinguer-le-frelon-asiatique-du-frelon-europeenSupports: French common name, invasive status in France, first appearance in France in 2004, spread, impact on bees.
- Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle — https://www.mnhn.fr/fr/frelon-asiatique-a-pattes-jaunesSupports: Common name, invasive status, native and introduced ranges, impact on honey bee colonies.
- Communauté d'agglomération Sophia Antipolis — https://www.agglo-sophiaantipolis.fr/vivre-et-habiter/evoluer-dans-son-environnement/preserver-les-espaces-naturels-et-la-biodiversite/les-especes-exotiques-envahissantes/le-frelon-asiatiqueSupports: First observation in France in 2004, import via pottery from China, invasive status, basic identification features.