A new one threat to European biodiversity is making its way: the Vespa sisteran Asian giant hornet particularly aggressive. Native to Asia, this species was recently spotted for the first time in Europe, precisely in the Asturiasa region in northwestern Spain.
The discovery, reported by researchers on November 14, raises serious concerns for beekeeping and local biodiversity. There Vespa sister is closely related to the Vespa mandariniaalso known as the Asian giant hornet. With a length of 4-5 centimeters, it is one of the hornets largest and most dangerous in the world.
Unlike other species, this one is known for its ability to coordinate group attacks against bee colonies. During these organized raids, the Hornets they quickly eliminate the adult bees and then plunder the hivesusing honey and larvae as a food source for their offspring. This behavior represents a serious threat to European beekeepers, whose hives are not prepared to defend themselves against such an advanced predator.
European bees are particularly vulnerable
In Asia, local bees have developed defensive strategies against Vespa soror, such as the “thermal grouping”, in which they generate heat to repel the attack. However, European bees do not possess these natural defenses, making them particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, the presence of this hornet could have devastating effects on biodiversity, compromising pollination and the balance of ecosystems.
The spread of the Vespa soror in Europe seems to be facilitated by global warming. Although it is not a species originally adapted to the European climate, increasingly higher summer temperatures are creating an environment conducive to its proliferation. Also the international trade contributed to the accidental introduction of this species, as already happened with Vespa velutina, another Asian hornet that arrived in France in 2004.
In addition to environmental damage, the Vespa soror represents a risk to human health. Its sting is extremely painful and can provoke allergic reactions seriousmaking greater vigilance necessary to identify and contain its presence.
For this reason citizens are invited to report any sightings to the competent authorities through dedicated platforms. With ecosystem and human safety at stake, it is essential to carefully monitor the spread of this invasive species and take preventative measures to mitigate its impact.
