Taxonomy and biodiversity assessment of Wasp species across Dhaka focusing on Suburban regions

Abstract

Wasps (Hymenoptera) play vital ecological roles as pollinators, predators, and natural pest regulators, yet their diversity in Bangladesh remains poorly studied. This research provides a taxonomic and biodiversity assessment of wasp species across suburban regions of Dhaka. Specimens were collected from March 2024 to February 2025 across eight suburban locations. A total of 43 species from 11 families were identified through morphological examination, and dichotomous keys were developed to aid reliable species-level identification. Community composition revealed Vespidae as the most dominant family (40%), followed by Sphecidae (27%) and Ichneumonidae (9%), while Leucospidae showed the lowest abundance (0.3%). Biodiversity indices indicated that Vespidae had the highest diversity and species richness (Shannon-Wiener Index = 2.221; Margalef Diversity Index = 2.192), whereas Scoliidae showed the least even distribution (Dominance Index = 0.271). Bipartite network analysis highlighted strong associations between wasp families and host plants, particularly Fabaceae and Asteraceae families. Seasonal heatmap analysis revealed distinct species-specific peaks, with Polistes watti and P. olivaceus most active in March and Dielis sp. in May, while overall activity declined from October to January. These findings provide baseline data on suburban wasp diversity in Dhaka and offer valuable insights into their taxonomy, seasonal dynamics, and ecological interactions.

Bangladesh J. Zool. 54(1): 01-15, 2026