Distribution, spread and impact of the invasive hornet Vespa velutina in South Korea

Abstract

Hornets (Vespa spp) are top insect predators so are beneficial in controlling pests, but their venomous stings and defensive behavior cause numerous human deaths throughout Asia. Normally hornets inhabit rural areas so reducing potential conflict with humans. In 2003 the invasive hornet Vespa velutina arrived in Southern Korea (Yeongdo region), where it became established and is currently spreading northwards at a rate of 10–20 km per year. Despite originating in tropical/subtropical areas of Indo‐China its nesting biology and life cycle in South Korea are similar to that found throughout its native range, with mature colonies containing 1,000–1,200 adults. We found that in seven years V. velutina has become the most abundance hornet species in Southern Korea by displacing other native species such as V. simillima, which has a similar nesting biology. Worryingly we also found a very significant positive correlation between the abundance of V. velutina and degree of urbanization, indicating this invasive species was well adapted to urban environments. This was supported by our finding that 41% of emergency call‐outs (119 Rescue Services) to deal with social wasps/hornet problems were due to V. velutina, which was twice as high as the next species. The rapid spread of V. velutina across France and Southern Korea indicates that this species will continue to spread northwards in Europe and Korean peninsular and become a major problem as more people and beekeepers become into contact by this aggressive invasive hornet.