Current Event 16: Japanese Murder Hornets

 Casey McKhann

Mr. Ippolito 

March 9th, 2020 

AP Biology EF Even

Segarra, Curtis. "A new map shows where ‘murder hornets’ could spread in the U.S." Science 

News, 1 Oct. 2020, https://www.sciencenews.org/article/asian-giant-murder-hornets-new-map-habitat-united-states

In this article by Curtis Segarra, the potential dangers of the invasive Asian giant hornets is described in detail. The author discusses the presence of the murder hornents in the Pacific United States, stating, that on the North American continent, the hornets only reside in British Columbia and northern Washington state. These hornets which are renowned for invading and destroying honeybee hives. These malicious attacks on honeybees have earned the giant hornet the nickname “Murder Hornet.” The author then continues to discuss the possible habitats of the hornets and the conditions which the invasive species finds suitable. These “murder hornets,” (Vespa mandarinia), tend to reside in warm and moist environments. The article states that the most suitable habitats for the Hornets can be found along the West Coast of the United States, with other suitable areas being found on areas of the East Coast. According to the article, the current dangers of the hornets are quite low because there are only a few nests within the United States; however, if these hornets are not stopped soon there is a large potential for future inhabitants along the entire West Coast. This would be detrimental to the survival of Honeybees. Currently, scientists are attempting to track these hornets back towards their nests to eliminate the young population, but attempts have been unsuccessful. The dangers are presented through the fact that researchers do not know that much about the hornets. For example, these murder hornets nest underground, this raises questions to scientists about their ability to spread. The good news currently is that it is predicted that it will take the hornets 10 years to reach Oregon from their current location, so there is time to find a solution. 

The spread of these hornets is relevant to the modern day ecosystems of much of the West Coast, and potentially the East Coast as well. Murder Hornets earned their name because they destroy honeybees and their hives very easily. This is important because honeybees are very important to our ecosystems. They play a large role in the pollination of flowers and the production of goods. Many individuals rely on honey as a source of income and would be impacted greatly by the introduction of a highly invasive predator. These hornets would also be a danger to humans, as their sting is incredibly painful, and in rare cases, can cause death. The good news is that these dangers are not immediately relevant, and that there is time to stop the spread. This article is incredibly relevant because the time to act is now, while the population of these hornets is small. If the problem is handled properly right now, the dangers of these hornets could be mitigated. 

This article was very interesting, informative, and relevant. It detailed necessary information regarding an ongoing issue in the United States, and discussed how crucial it was that the problem was handled immediately. I think this article did a very good job of delivering its message and creating interest around the issue. I think this article could have done a few things better. First off, it would have been interesting to hear more about the negative effects of the spread of the murder hornets. I also wish more was detailed on how the murder hornets arrived in the United States. I think going forward, this author should provide additional background information and also focus on describing the impact of the issue more thoroughly.