Vespoidea

Definition

A superfamily of wasps that includes familiar species such as yellowjackets, hornets, and paper wasps. This group is known for its social behavior and complex nesting structures.

Etymology

From Latin 'vespa', meaning 'wasp', and the suffix '-oidea', indicating a family or group.

Example

Species within the Vespoidea superfamily are known for their eusocial colonies with a division of labor.

Synonyms

• Vespid wasps

Related Terms

• Hymenoptera
• Eusociality
• Nest
• Colony

Usage Notes

This superfamily includes both social and some solitary wasps, although it is most famous for its social species.