Leaf-cutting bees
- Pronunciation
- /LEAF-cut-ting bee/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Leaf-cutting bee
- Plural
- Leaf-cutting bees
Definition
Bees of the genus *Megachile*, known for their habit of cutting leaves or other plant material to construct their nests.
Etymology
From the Latin words 'folium' (leaf) and 'secare' (to cut).
Example
Leaf-cutting bees are important pollinators of alfalfa crops.
Related Terms
- Pollination
- Alfalfa
- Nests
Usage Notes
Leaf-cutting bees are solitary and do not form large colonies like honeybees.