Scientists believe that the mass distribution of Asian hornets in Europe is due to the journey of one individual.
It’s no secret that invasive species have the unfortunate ability to spread rapidly in unprepared ecosystems, wreak havoc and die in their wake.
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) first appeared in Europe about 20 years ago and now extends their range by more than 80 kilometers per year, preying on honeybees, flying flies and other insects along the way. Researchers believe Asian hornets, also called killer hornets, first appeared in Europe when someone managed to cross the English Channel.
in 24News Breaker. Technology emerged telegraph channel. Subscribe so you don’t miss the latest and exciting news from the world of science!
In a new study, scientists at University College Cork analyzed the genetics of killer hornets in Europe and concluded that only one of them managed to make the jump from China to France in 2004.
In the study, zoologist Eileen Dilley and her team analyzed three genes of the first Asian hornet that made it to Ireland in April 2021. After comparison with the hornet sequences found in continental European soils, these turned out to be all mitochondrial genes transmitted over the female line.
The researchers didn’t stop there – they looked at two additional genes and concluded that the Dublin wasp maternal lineage was the same as all over Europe. It turns out that the entire population of Asian hornets, which now number in the millions, came from a forced-hiking female from China about 15-20 years ago.
In their usual habitat in Southeast Asia, Asian hornets attack local honeybees. However, they have already developed a well-developed system of protection and warning – in fact, they can attack wasps in response. Unfortunately, European honey bees have not yet developed such a defense mechanism and are therefore an easy target for attacking killer hornets.
The researchers note that future climate change may create more favorable conditions for a successful invasion in the future. Therefore, scientists recommend monitoring this species and its other population.
Previously Focus He wrote that bats learned to buzz like bees to avoid being eaten by owls.
Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.