First report of an association among <i>Aetalion reticulatum</i> (Linné) (Hemiptera: Aetalionidae) and <i>Synoeca septentrionalis</i> Richards (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

Abstract

The association among Aetalion reticulatum (Linné) (Hemiptera, Aetalionidae) and the wasp Synoeca septentrionalis Richards (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) is reported for the first time. This association was observed on Piper aduncum Linné (Piperales, Piperaceae) in the Venezuelan Andes. Wasps did not confront objects brought close to aggregation, suggesting that the aggressive behavior was displayed only against competitors. Therefore, wasps could not be considered as real mutualists of the Hemipterans.