Behavioral plasticity mediates asymmetric competition between invasive wasps and native ants

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Behavioral Ecology
• Invasive Species Biology

Background:

• The common wasp (Vespula vulgaris) is a highly successful invasive species.
• Invasive species often exhibit novel behaviors to overcome native competitors.
• Previous research identified unique interference behaviors in Vespula vulgaris foragers competing with ants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To further investigate the nature and functioning of the interference behavior used by Vespula vulgaris.
• To explore the role of behavioral plasticity in the success of invasive species.
• To examine how native species might coexist with invasive species.

Main Methods:

• Observational studies of Vespula vulgaris foraging and interactions with native ants.
• Analysis of the physical mechanics and situational modulation of the interference behavior.
• Theoretical discussion on competitive advantages and evolutionary implications.

Main Results:

• Vespula vulgaris foragers exhibit a specific interference behavior: grasping competitors in their mandibles, flying backward, and displacing them from resources.
• This behavior is effective in dealing with aggressive native ant competitors.
• The wasps modulate this behavior based on situational context.

Conclusions:

• The observed interference behavior provides Vespula vulgaris with a competitive advantage, potentially linked to asymmetries in size and flight.
• This interaction serves as a model system for understanding behavioral plasticity in biological invasions.
• Behavioral plasticity is crucial for both the success of invaders and the potential coexistence of native species.