ABSTRACT

Altenburg, Karl Ralph, Ph.D., Department of Zoology, College of Science and Mathematics, North Dakota State University, May 1999. Construction of yellowjacket wasp nests: internal models or collective reactive behavior. Major Professor: Dr. James Grier.

The nests and building behavior of yellowjacket wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Vespula, Dolichovespula) were observed and measured. The general hypothesis that nest features are the result of collective reactive behavior was tested through experiments and computer modeling. Specific hypotheses regarding the location of the nest entrance, the addition of combs and envelope layers, and the formation of dormers were tested by altering nest features or environmental conditions. The entrance location approximated a calculated expected location due to builder interruptions. The addition of combs was a function of the dimension of the originating comb. The working edge of the envelope was not the only factor for envelope extension or addition. Adding water the envelope stimulated the formation of dormers. A computer simulation model was developed to test the hypothesis that nests could be build by reactive autonomous agents. The model was capable of generating a variety of qualitatively natural nest forms. Experimental manipulations were performed on the simulated nests. The outcomes of the simulation experiments supported the comb addition and reactive agent hypotheses. The analysis of real and simulated wasp construction supported the hypothesis that nest construction is the result of reactive collective behavior.