Patterns in the sounds produced by Paravespula germanica wasps

In the nest of the social wasp P. germanica (Hymenoptera: Vespinae), the workers produce solid‐borne tapping sounds by knocking with their bellies on the walls of the comb cells. Analysis of these recorded sounds reveals that they produce series of 20–60 beats, each containing 15–30 subbeats. The patterns of beats and subbeats are shown to be arranged in series of typical duration and spacing. Frequency analysis of the sounds reveals a peak at about 500 Hz and a range of 50–3150 Hz. The possible communicative value of these sounds is discussed.

Subject Classification: 80.50, 80.60.