Wasps : their biology, diversity, and role as beneficial insects and pollinators of native plants / Heather Holm.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction. Why wasps? -- All about wasps -- Wasp life cycles -- Wasp anatomy -- Wasp diet -- Ecosystem services provided by wasps -- Crabronidate : square-headed wasps -- Sphecidae : thread-waisted wasps -- Pompilidae : spider wasps -- Sapygidae : club-horned cuckoo wasps -- Scoliidae : scoliid wasps -- Thynnidae : thynnid wasps -- Eumeninae : potter and mason wasps -- Vespinae : yellowjackets and hornets -- Polistinae : paper wasps -- Chrysididae : cuckoo wasps -- Leucospidae : chalcid wasps -- Gasteruptiidae : carrot wasps -- Eastern North American planting guide.

"WASPS is the first full-color, illustrated guide featuring approximately 150 species of flower-visiting wasps that occur in eastern North America, and the specific native plants and habitat each species depends upon. Written with an ecological lens, this richly-illustrated book details wasp diversity and has full-page profiles for each wasp species that include identification tips, geographic range maps, biology, prey, natural history and habitat. Five introductory chapters cover wasp taxonomy, nesting biology, prey-hunting behaviors, diet, anatomy, as well as wasp habitat enhancement and management, and the ecosystem services provided by wasps--insect pest population control and pollination. Profiles of each wasp species comprise the major part of the book and are organized by family, showcasing twelve families and sixty-eight wasp genera. Also included are eastern North American regional native plant guides, tips on wasp observation, and over 1000 stunning photographs. ​ This is an essential book for conservationists, naturalists, insect enthusiasts, biologists, nature photographers, native plant aficionados, and anyone interested in beneficial insects and pollinators."--Page [4] of cover.