As the snow of winter fades in Nova Scotia, researchers at Dalhousie University are urging individuals to be on the lookout for abandoned paper wasp nests. These nests are being gathered from various locations across the province to investigate potential heavy metal contamination.
Carlie Ashton, an undergraduate student in environmental science at Dal’s agricultural campus in Bible Hill, N.S., is spearheading this research as part of her honours project. She is particularly interested in studying two species of wasps – aerial yellowjackets and bald-faced hornets – which construct their nests using wood or plant fibers collected from their surroundings. These materials are chewed by the insects to create a pulp that forms the nest structure.
The study aims to reveal whether wasp nests in urban areas show higher levels of copper and chromium contamination, commonly found in wood preservatives, compared to nests in rural settings. Ashton explains that wasps in urban regions may be exposed to wood preservatives from sources like decks, while those in rural areas may primarily use natural materials like trees.
Individuals who come across abandoned wasp nests are encouraged to contact Ashton to contribute to the research. With the winter causing the wasps to perish due to cold temperatures, the nests are left uninhabited as mated queens seek shelter elsewhere, such as under tree bark or in various natural structures.
Ashton intends to collect all specimens by May before the wasps commence building new nests. Despite potential wear and tear on the nests from winter conditions, she plans to dry the nests in a microwave, dissolve the material, and analyze it for heavy metal content using specialized equipment.
This investigation, focusing on aerial yellowjackets and bald-faced hornets, is a novel initiative in Canada, according to Ashton. The study will help determine if these wasp species can serve as indicators of heavy metal presence, shedding light on environmental pressures they face.
Assistant professor Paul Manning, one of the project supervisors, emphasizes the importance of understanding the levels of contaminants present in these insects to comprehend the challenges they encounter. While the research does not delve into the effects of contamination on the wasps, previous studies have suggested that copper exposure could impact their lifespan and reproductive capabilities.
The ongoing decline of insect populations worldwide, influenced by factors like habitat loss and pesticide use, underscores the significance of such research efforts. Manning highlights the necessity of gauging the multiple stressors insects face in today’s environment.
Overall, this study not only expands scientific knowledge but also contributes to the broader understanding of environmental impacts on insect populations.
