The Secrets of the Wasp Nest. The Curious World of the Most Underappreciated Insects

Wasps are amazing creatures that demonstrate social behavior and cognitive abilities far surpassing other insects, particularly bees - for wasps flew and foraged for food 100 million years before bees appeared! In the book by prominent British entomologist Seirian Sumner, the exciting diversity of the world of wasps, their species and functions, important stages of their evolution, behavior and habitat, the lives of solitary wasp hunters and colonies of wasps as a superorganism are discussed. You will get acquainted with the history of wasp study, the role of wasps as indicators of environmental conditions, biodiversity of ecosystems and habitat pollution, the response of wasp populations to increasing urbanization, and a forecast of what our planet would look like if wasps were to disappear. Learning more about the lives of these insects, which are fundamental to the ecological balance of the planet, allows us to learn more about ourselves and life on Earth.
«Wasps are one of nature's most mysterious and overlooked gems. The infinite variety of their forms showcases one of the most unpredictable and impressive achievements of evolution. Their lives are intricately intertwined with those of other insects, as well as fungi, bacteria, plants, soil, ecosystems, and even ourselves. The aim of this book is to place wasps at the esteemed table of nature and to transform the horrific disgust that people feel towards wasps into admiration and respect that wasps deserve». (Seirian Sumner)