Diversity and distribution of wasps and bees (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Vespidae, Apidae) in the Gauhati University Campus, Kamrup Metro, Assam, India

The diversity and distribution of wasps and bees in the Gauhati University campus, Kamrup Metro, Assam was investigated in four different habitats: campus gardens, grasslands, residential areas, and areas adjacent to wetlands. Specimens were observed or collected from March 2022 to February 2023. A total of 23 species were recorded from five subfamilies; Polistinae, Eumeninae, and Vespinae under the family Vespidae, Apinae, and Xylocopinae under the family Apidae. The most abundant subfamily was Polistinae (44%) and the least Xylocopinae (8%). Shannon-Weiner diversity index values indicated the highest diversity in residential areas (3.4) followed by gardens (3.3), grasslands (2.2), and areas adjacent to wetlands (2.0). Species abundance exhibited seasonal variations, peaking during the monsoon months.