subject: What Is The Structure Of Wasp Sting And Its Functions? [print this page] The pain caused by a wasp sting can be attributed to a toxic fluid that contains a complex protein that is injected stingingly into the victim. Strangely, all victims of wasp stings do not react in the same manner.
Some people do not experience any pain and seldom bother about wasp stings whist others feel severe pain and suffer inflammation in the stung area. There are also people who are allergic to wasp stings and hey may experience anaphylactic shock if prompt treatment is not provided.
It is a poor consolation to know that male wasps are harmless and do not sting. It is the female wasps that inflict that sharp sting particularly in late summer months. This is the time they come out of their nests to start feeding on windfalls, plant juices and other sources of food.
The structure is such that it is the female wasps that possess a sting that doubles up as the egg-laying organ. Closer examination will reveal it to be a sharp, narrow tubular structure resembling a hypodermic needle and with an outer sheath like a cannula. Interestingly, there is a sac at the bottom that holds the venom.
The wasp's abdomen is designed to protect the muscular base of the sting that acts as a tail. When a wasp chooses to sting, the abdomen gives way slightly for the mechanism to fully function.
The cannula portion of the sting contains tiny barbs that capture the human skin or any other insect prey and once it gains a firm grip, the needle-like inner part of the structure moves forward to inject venom and/or an egg. The muscles that facilitate this movement also assist to squeeze the venom from the sac at the base of the sting down the central shaft into the wasp's victim.
Scientific research about the exact composition of wasp venom is still inconclusive, although it is said to contain a mix of enzymes and proteins. The heartening fact is, though wasp venom causes pain and swelling in many, it is not life-threatening for human beings except for a few who may be allergic to stings.
The one sane advice is to leave wasps alone and not needlessly provoke them into stinging you. Remember that wasp venom contains a pheromone which will attract other wasps in the vicinity. There are several effective home remedies for wasp stings but if the pain and swelling persists or worsens you will have to seek medical advice.
Notwithstanding the fact that wasps are aggressive insects when disturbed, they are of great benefit to plant life and the pollination process. The wasps have a constructive role to play in the life cycle of many other insects. Wasps help control the spread of arthropod pests like - flies, caterpillars, bugs, spiders, etc- by preying on them. Their sting can be painful to humans but to the wasps, they are a defense against possible threats.
There are some leading pest management and consulting companies, who are fully bonded, insured, certified and licensed by Ministry of Water Land & Air Protection. They use some latest and advanced pest control technology to help you get rid of the wasps and you can contact them if the wasp menace in your place is too acute.
