Scorpiops walteri sp. n. (Scorpiones: Scorpiopidae) from Myanmar

  Scorpiops walteri sp. n. (Scorpiones: Scorpiopidae) from Myanmar Abstract A new species Scorpiops walteri sp . n . (Scorpiopidae) is described from Myanmar, fully illustrated with color photos showing its morphology and habitus. Scorpiops walteri sp . n . is the only species of the genus with a combination of the following five characters: chelal trichobothrium Eb 3 located in middle of manus between trichobothria Dt and Est ; patella of pedipalp with 11–12 ventral and 19 external trichobothria; fingers of pedipalps strongly undulate in male; pedipalp movable finger with ca. 47 IAD; and chela length to width ratio 2.8 in male. Kovařík, F. 2026 . Scorpiops walteri sp. n. (Scorpiones: Scorpiopidae) from Myanmar. Euscorpius , No. 437: 1-13.  https://mds.marshall.edu/euscorpius/vol2026/iss437/1/

From the sting to the laboratory: A review of the venom peptides of social wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

 


From the sting to the laboratory: A review of the venom peptides of social wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

Abstract

Social wasps make up a significant part to the diversity of the Hymenoptera order, one of the most varied insect groups. Beyond their ecological importance, these insects use their venom for defense, protecting their colonies. The venom of social wasps are rich in biologically active substances, including biogenic amines, peptides, proteins, enzymes, allergens, and volatile compounds. These substances can trigger various immune responses, such as allergic reactions and inflammation, and certain peptides demonstrate antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anticoagulant, and anticancer properties. However, the limited availability of venom and the lack of studies of function for its bioactive compounds remain challenges to its effective utilization. This review compiles 124 peptides isolated from social wasps, highlighting their relevance in biotechnology and medicine, while also discussing their limitations and potential applications. These peptides were isolated from 39 species of social wasps worldwide, underscoring the potential of these insects' venom as a promising source for developing new pharmaceutical products and as a catalyst for drug discovery. Additionally, this work emphasizes a significant gap in research on social wasps collected in the Brazilian Amazon.
Brito, S., Alves, M. N. R., & Somavilla, A. (2025). From the sting to the laboratory: A review of the venom peptides of social wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae). Toxicon, 108566. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2025.108566