The Invasive Species Vespa velutina: A Current Challenge in European Ecosystems

Dear Colleagues,

The yellow-legged hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax is a recently introduced alien species in many places of European countries. Coming from South Asia, the ability of the species to adapt to new environments confirms that is a clear case of invasive success. The consequences of this invasive species on ecosystems are still little studied, but the enormous predatory capacity of other invertebrate species such as bees has already been revealed. The presence of the species in urban and semi-urban environments creates a strong social alarm, for which society demands effective and selective control strategies.

This Special Issue deals with the consequences of the introduction of Vespa velutina in ecosystems. Topics such as the behavior of the species, feeding habits, life cycle, ecological and economic consequences of its introduction, management strategies and control proposals as well as studies on their natural environment, are welcome topics for this Special Issue.

Dr. María Shantal Rodríguez-Flores
Prof. Dr. Olga Escuredo
Prof. Dr. M. Carmen Seijo
Guest Editors

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