Leafcutting bees

Definition

Bees of the genus *Megachile*, known for their habit of cutting leaves to construct their nests.

Etymology

From the Latin 'folium', meaning 'leaf', and the Greek 'megas', meaning 'large', and 'cheilos', meaning 'lip' (referring to the large mandibles they use to cut leaves).

Example

Leafcutting bees are important pollinators of crops such as alfalfa.

Related Terms

• Megachile
• Pollination
• Nesting

Usage Notes

Leafcutting bee species vary in size and color, but they are generally black or metallic green.