I don't know which one we in Hawaii dread more (there is the chance that
both could become established here). Both tend to nest near human
habitations, and, thus, both could become a public health problem. The
more serious problem with AHB is probably an economic one, especially in
commercial pollination. They can't be depended upon to stick around and
do the job. However, Paravespula germanica should still be very much a
concern in areas to which it could be introduced. An overwintering queen
comes into Hawaii occasionally on a load of Christmas trees from the Pacific
Northwest.
 
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Thomas W. Culliney                  Phone: (808) 973-9529
Hawaii Dept. of Agriculture     Facsimile: (808) 973-9533
Division of Plant Industry        E-mail: [log in to unmask]
1428 South King Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
U.S.A.
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