Why Do Wasps Need to Drink Water?
WouterAlmost all insects require water for their body’s metabolic processes. This water is obtained either directly by sucking or indirectly through a food source. Some insects also receive water from nectar and other sources.
Parasitic wasps, on the other hand, rarely consume free water. In these cases, they have a high concentration of host-food to obtain hydration and food. This increase in food consumption, or host-feeding, enhances the total host-killing capacity of the parasitic wasp. However, the effects of free water on parasitoid biology are not well understood.
Studies of parasitic wasps have largely focused on energy as a primary purpose for host-feeding. The lack of such studies has likely impeded research on water intake strategies. However, there are a few strategies that can be used to ensure hydration of parasitic wasps.
One common strategy, known as synovigeny, involves shifting water droplets with the use of pincer claws. In addition, it is often used to ward off other wasps. Indirect consumption of water is also a common strategy.
Some species of wasps will drink water from puddles or other sources of free water. They also will mix water with mud or wood pulp to create nests. This method of construction is useful because it provides a cool place for wasps to build nests on hot days.
Some wasps, however, can survive months without food. In addition, these insects can survive for days without water. Some species of wasps even hibernate in the spring to begin new colonies.
