author(s)
Avisek Patra, Chitra Pramanik, Sandip Bauri, Tanushri Bhakat, Sandipan Ganguly, Avik Chattopadhyay, Dipika Mahato, Anirban Chatterjee, Barna Sing Sardar, Sipra Layek and Barsha Kundu

abstract
This study examines the
nesting habits of social insects on the Bankura Christian College campus, West
Bengal, India. Field surveys conducted from August 2022 to January 2023
revealed a strong preference for soil-based nests (81.3%), with fire ants (Solenopsis
invicta) being the most dominant species (46.6%). Termites accounted for
18.7% of nests, while arboreal nests of wasps and bees were scarce (1.4%).
Statistical analysis indicated high variation in nest abundance and moderate
inequality in distribution. The dominance of soil nests highlights ecological
adaptations, whereas the low occurrence of arboreal nests suggests habitat
constraints. These findings underscore the need for further research on species
interactions, environmental influences, and conservation strategies.