The Asian hornet is a species of hornet that is native to Southeast Asia. It is also known as the yellow-legged hornet or the Asian predatory wasp. The Asian hornet has become a significant concern in recent years due to its invasive nature and its potential impact on local ecosystems.
Definitions
The Asian hornet is a species of hornet that belongs to the genus Vespa. It is typically larger than other hornet species and has distinctive yellow legs. The Asian hornet is known for its aggressive behavior and its ability to prey on other insects, including honeybees.
Origin
The Asian hornet is native to Southeast Asia, including countries such as China, Japan, and Korea. It was first introduced to Europe in the early 2000s and has since spread to other parts of the world, including North America.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the Asian hornet is defined as “a large, predatory wasp (Vespa velutina) native to Asia that has become established in parts of Europe and is a threat to honeybees.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines the Asian hornet as “a large predatory wasp that preys on other insects, including honeybees. It is native to Southeast Asia but has become a significant concern in Europe and other parts of the world due to its invasive nature.”
Associations
The Asian hornet is commonly associated with its aggressive behavior and its ability to prey on other insects, including honeybees. It is also associated with its distinctive yellow legs and its large size.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for the Asian hornet include the yellow-legged hornet, the Asian predatory wasp, and the Vespa velutina.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for the Asian hornet, but some related terms include honeybees, which are often preyed upon by the Asian hornet.
The same root words
The root words for the Asian hornet are “Vespa,” which is the genus to which it belongs, and “velutina,” which refers to its velvety appearance.
Example Sentences
- The Asian hornet is a significant threat to honeybees in Europe.
- The yellow-legged hornet, also known as the Asian hornet, is native to Southeast Asia.
- The Asian predatory wasp, or Vespa velutina, is known for its aggressive behavior and its ability to prey on other insects.