Ecological Features of the Exotic Wasp Vespula Vulgaris L. 1758 (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) Invading the Southernmost Unesco Biosphere Reserve

Abstract Invasive alien species may cause substantial changes and damaging impacts in the ecosystems they invade. Here, we document the current distribution and ecological interactions with native biota of the relatively recently introduced wasp, Vespula vulgaris, in the southern part of the Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve. We conducted surveys and field studies in four different habitats on Navarino Island: evergreen, deciduous and mixed forests, and shrublands. The spread of V. vulgaris through the island since its first detection has led to it occupying suitable habitats for nesting and foraging, both in urban and rural settings. The presence of V. vulgaris on islands and remote areas of the CHBR is likely the result of marine human movement through the channels withing the reserve. Wasp foraging composition was different on each of the four studied habitats, yet strongly linked to each habitat’s resources, indicating the inherent ability of V. vulgaris of exploiting surrounding resources efficiently. The lack of natural competitors and availability of multiple resources as allowed V. vulgaris to rapidly become a common pest in urban and rural settings in the southern extreme of South America. In this context, we believe that eradication would be impossible, although it would be possible to control populations at localized scales with proper planning and long-term management. Our results can act as a base for management planning, and we strongly recommend social engagement and dialog with pertinent governmental institutions to achieve this challenging task.