Study of nest and nesting habits of social insects in Bankura Christian college campus, Bankura, WB, India

Abstract

This study examines thenesting habits of social insects on the Bankura Christian College campus, WestBengal, India. Field surveys conducted from August 2022 to January 2023revealed a strong preference for soil-based nests (81.3%), with fire ants (Solenopsisinvicta) being the most dominant species (46.6%). Termites accounted for18.7% of nests, while arboreal nests of wasps and bees were scarce (1.4%).Statistical analysis indicated high variation in nest abundance and moderateinequality in distribution. The dominance of soil nests highlights ecologicaladaptations, whereas the low occurrence of arboreal nests suggests habitatconstraints. These findings underscore the need for further research on speciesinteractions, environmental influences, and conservation strategies.