Compound nest
- Pronunciation
- /COM-pound NEST/
- Category
- Social Behavior
- Singular
- Compound nest
- Plural
- Compound nests
Definition
A nest built by multiple queen colonies, often in close proximity to each other, sometimes sharing walls or structures.
Etymology
From the Latin 'componere' meaning 'to put together' and Middle English 'nest', referring to a place where animals live.
Example
Compound nests are common among certain species of social wasps, where multiple queen colonies share a single nest structure.
Related Terms
- Colony
- Queen
- Social behavior
Usage Notes
Compound nests can vary greatly in size and complexity depending on the species and environmental factors.