Beggs (2001): The ecological consequences of social wasps (Vespula spp.) invading an ecosystem that has an abundant carbohydrate resource.

Beggs, J.R. 2001. The ecological consequences of social wasps (Vespula spp.) invading an ecosystem that has an abundant carbohydrate resource. Biological Conservation 99: 17–28.

This paper reviews the impact that introduced social wasps are having in beech (Nothofagus spp) forest infested with endemic honeydew-producing scale insects. There is about 1 million ha of honeydew-infested beech forest in South Island, New Zealand. Wasps are abundant in these forests, and compete with native species for the honeydew resource. Additionally, wasps consume large quantities of native invertebrates. Wasp abundance needs to be reduced by 80-90% to conserve vulnerable invertebrate species. The paper also discusses how wasps could affect nutrient cycling, and the risk of an invasion by ants or other social wasps.