Miner, Fairy, Allied Panurgine, and Oxaeine Bees

Andrenidae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Andrenidae: /ænˈdriːnɪˌdeɪ/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Andrena pluvialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Andrena rupshuensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Andrena quettensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Andrena pluvialis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Micrandrena pacifica by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Calliopsis sonora by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

The Andrenidae are a diverse family of solitary, ground-nesting bees known for their ecological importance as pollinators, primarily inhabiting temperate regions. They display a variety of nesting behaviors and dietary specializations, with a significant number of species exhibiting unique characteristics within their subfamilies.

Physical Characteristics

Small to moderate-sized bees, often with scopae on basal segments of legs, two subantennal sutures on the face, and foveae on the head near the upper margin of the eyes. Subfamily Oxaeinae is characterized by large, fast-flying bees with large eyes.

Identification Tips

Presence of two subantennal sutures and foveae on the head; some species exhibit significant size variation and different coloration patterns.

Habitat

Sandy soils, sparse vegetation, old meadows, dry road beds, and sandy paths. Commonly found in areas with well-drained soil.

Distribution

Almost worldwide, with a higher diversity in temperate and arid regions. Over 1,200 species in the Americas alone.

Diet

Oligolectic, often specializing in specific types of flowers for pollen and nectar.

Life Cycle

Females dig burrows approximately 2-3 inches deep with side tunnels, provisioning chambers with pollen and nectar for their larvae.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs on a pollen and nectar ball sealed within chambers of burrows.

Ecosystem Role

Important pollinators in their ecosystems, particularly in sandy or dry habitats.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting
  • Bait trapping
  • Using sweep nets in flowering habitats

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Ethanol preservation
  • Storage in labeled envelopes

Evolution

The Andrenidae are believed to have originated in the Eocene-Oligocene boundary, around 34 million years ago.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Andrenidae with other solitary bee families, especially those that also nest in the ground.

Tags

  • Andrenidae
  • Mining Bees
  • Solitary Bees
  • Oligolectic
  • Ground-nesting