The potential distribution of German wasps (Vespula germanica) in Argentina

Abstract

In the early 1980s, the German wasp (Vespula germanica) arrived in Argentina and became established in northern Patagonia. We use an ecoclimatic computer‐based program (CLIMEX) to predict the potential spread of wasps to other areas of the country. The model suggests that much of Argentina does not appear to be very suitable for the species’ establishment. However, more suitable areas than those currently colonised by the wasp occur in the centre of the country. Based on CLIMEX results, we suggest that, if the wasps ever break through the barrier of unfavourable habitat that surrounds their current distribution, they will continue dispersing to those areas. Notwithstanding this, factors other than climate may explain why German wasps are firmly established in areas otherwise considered to be inhospitable for the species. © 2002 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.