Ecological studies of some insects associated with Bedouin settlements in St Katherine Protectorate, South Sinai, Egypt.

Abstract

Two wadi systems in the southwestern part of the St Katherine Protectorate were surveyed for one year to record the seasonal abundance and food preference of the most common troublesome household pests in Bedouin villages, the oriental hornet Vespa orientalis and cockroaches (Blattodea). There was no significant difference between wadis in wasp and cockroach abundance, even though they differ in altitude, Bedouin density and type of tourism impact. The wasp was abundant from April to November, peaking during August, and disappearing between December and March. Cockroaches were very abundant in houses, peaking in August, and reaching a minimum in winter. The abundance of Vespa orientalis has important implications for wild bees, and the huge numbers of cockroaches have health implications for Bedouin.

Keywords: kVespa orientalis, Blatella germanica , Periplaneta americana, seasonal abundance, wadi systems

Egyptian Journal of Biology Vol. 10 2008: pp. 95-103