Wasmann

Wasmann is a surname of German origin. It is believed to derive from a given name, possibly a diminutive of "Waso" or "Waz." The name is found in various spellings and variations across German-speaking regions and has been carried by individuals who emigrated to other parts of the world.

Notable individuals bearing the Wasmann surname include Erich Wasmann, a Jesuit priest and entomologist who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is recognized for his extensive research on social insects, particularly ants. His work contributed to the understanding of insect behavior and evolution. The term "Wasmannian mimicry" was coined in his honor, referring to the phenomenon where one species mimics the appearance or behavior of another for survival advantage, often observed in ant colonies where non-ants live among them.

The Wasmann family name appears in historical records in different regions of Germany, reflecting migration patterns over centuries. As with many surnames, its exact etymology can be subject to regional linguistic influences. The name continues to be present in contemporary populations.