Common name(s): This group is sometimes collectively known as the "lesser paper wasps"
This is the largest species of Parapolybia, and is easily distinguished from the other two species locally. It is usually in the range of 17 to 22 mm total length. It is overall a dark yellow-brown, with some lighter yellow at the sides of the thorax.
Parapolybia indica is fairly common in Hong Kong, although it does not seem to be as widespread as Parapolybia varia, and is not frequently found withing truly urban environments.
The nest of Parapolybia indica is generally the same size as that of Parapolybia varia and Parapolybia nodosa. However, at the same size, there are fewer individuals, possibly because of the slightly larger size of adults and consequently, larger cells in the nest. The nest is usually more horizontal than that of Parapolybia varia. It is generally constructed at higher levels than nests of the other two species. This is fortunate, because this species is also more defensive than the other two species.
Parapolybia indica is otherwise very similar to Parapolybia varia and Parapolybia nodosa in most other aspects.