Key to the species of genus Polistes occurring in Goa, India

(modified from Das & Gupta 1989)

1. Jugal lobe on hind wing reduced (Fig. 111); interocellar distance equal or less than diameter of the posterior ocellus (Fig. 113); first metasomal sternite without margin at base (Fig. 115)...................................... nigritarsis Cameron

- Jugal lobe on hind wing large (Fig. 112); interocellar distance more than diameter of the posterior ocellus (Fig. 114); first metasomal sternite with well developed margin at base (Fig. 116).......................... stigma tamulus (Fabricius)