Vespa mandarinia, commonly known as the Asian giant hornet, is the world's largest hornet species. Known for its formidable size, with queens reaching up to 5 cm, it inhabits temperate and tropical East Asia. It preys on bees, wasps, and other insects, and can significantly impact local ecosystems.

Vespa mandarinia, commonly known as the Asian giant hornet, is native to Eastern Asia. Its geographical distribution primarily includes countries such as Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan, and parts of Russia's Far East.

The Asian giant hornet typically inhabits temperate and subtropical regions. It prefers low mountain areas and forests, where it can find tree hollows or underground tunnels to build its nests. The climate in these areas is generally characterized by moderate temperatures, with distinct seasons and sufficient rainfall to support lush vegetation.

Vespa mandarinia is a top predator in its ecosystem, primarily preying on other insects, including bees, which it hunts to feed its larvae. Its presence is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance by controlling the populations of its prey. It plays a significant role in the food web, impacting both its prey and the species that compete with it for resources.