New records and distribution update of Polistes (Gyrostoma) wattii Cameron, 1900 (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Polistinae)

Abstract

The distribution of Polistes (Gyrostoma) wattii Cameron, 1900 is summarized and new occurrence records are given through collected or photographed material. The known distributional range of the species is here expanded westward and the first records from Israel, Uzbekistan, Samangan (Afghanistan) and Assam (India) are provided. A map of the countries for which P. wattii is reliably recorded is quoted. Another one about the known Indian states of occurrence of the species is provided, emphasizing different faunistic knowledge between the north-western and north-eastern parts of this country. Further research is certainly needed to better define the distribution of P. wattii in Central Asia and in India.

Keywords

• hymenoptera
• vespidae
• polistes wattii
• first records
• new records
• distribution