Barbarian Invasions: the transcontinental journeys of animals from ancient times to today

In particular, we will discuss the brown marmorated stinkbug (Halyomorpha halys) and the Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), two insects that can potentially cause substantial damage to agriculture (and more). The stinkbug produces large aggregations and attacks many crops – grasses and trees – and in the autumn moves en masse to sheltered places, including homes, for wintering, thus coming into contact with people. The wasp, instead, is a phenomenal bee killer: it can break down the population of a hive in a few days. It also has a considerable size, is rather aggressive and its sting can be painful and dangerous.

The speakers are two FEM entomologists: Valerio Mazzoni (bioacoustics expert) and Paolo Fontana (bee expert).