Search

P. alternata is a cave-dwelling stenogastrine wasp of the South Asian rain forests; it builds two distinct types of nest which differ in substrate and other characteristics. Both types of nest were examined and compared for overall dimensions, cell size and building material. The inhabitants taken from both types of nests, were also measured. Significant differences between the two types of nests were found in cell size and percentages of inorganic and organic material. A significant difference was also found in the wing size of the inhabitants. Both nest styles are described in detail, and the evolutionary implications are discussed in terms of behavioural plasticity and the possibility of sympatric speciation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]