CH, V] 



WASPS 



147 



increasing load. The distances between the several combs 

 and between these and the innermost wrapping for the 

 time being are just sufficient to allow the inhabitants to 

 move freely about within the nest. The necessary in- 



Fig. 28. Diagram of nest of Vespa germanica. (After Janet.) 

 . 1 to c. 7. First to seventh combs of cells. The actual state of c. 7 is 

 shown in a separate figure at the top left-hand side. e. Space 

 between nest and surrounding soil. env. Coverings of nest. 

 I. Larvse of Pegomyia (Acanthiptera) inanis, Fall.? in soil beneath 

 nest. r. 1. Root on which nest was originally suspended. 



r. 2. Other roots to which also nest was subsequently attached, 

 s. 1. Pebble enclosed in coverings. s. 2. Pebbles fallen to bottom 

 of cavity in course of excavations. sc. 1. Original stalk for sus- 

 pension of nest. st. 2. First stalk or pillar for suspension of 

 second comb. st. Secondary stalks. t. Entrance to nest from 

 surface of earth. tp. A mole's burrow. x. Small lateral 

 passages. A nest of ants (Lasius flavus) is indicated in the soil 

 above the nest. 



102 



