ABSTRACT
The order Hymenoptera with about 250,000 species described to date comprises the most developed forms with regard to anatomy and behaviour. This chapter describes the phylogenic development and mode of action of the hymenopteran sting apparatus, since the function of this structure, present only in females, has changed several times during evolution and serves different purposes in the different suborders. Due to the common introduction of their offspring in different arthropod hosts (e.g. butterfly caterpillars, saw-fly larvae, spiders, ticks) this species-rich hymenopteran group was often designated as "parasitica". The review exclusively deals with the venom composition of social wasps and bees of medical importance. In general, three different groups of venom components in a more or less constant quantitative distribution may be distinguished: low molecular weight substances, peptides and enzymes, respectively. Special remedies available against hymenopteran stings contain substances like ammonia, menthol or campher. These substances have a cooling and pain relieving effect.
