Ancylandrena larreae
(Timberlake, 1951)
Creosote Bush Ancylandrena
Ancylandrena larreae, commonly known as the creosote bush ancylandrena, is a of mining in the . It was first described by Timberlake in 1951 as Megandrena larreae. The species is named for its association with creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), suggesting a specialized relationship. It occurs in arid regions of North America and Central America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ancylandrena larreae: //ænˌsɪlænˈdɹiːnə læˈɹiːaɪ//
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Habitat
Arid and semi-arid regions associated with creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) vegetation . The ' and specific epithet indicate a close ecological relationship with this desert shrub.
Distribution
North America and Central America. Specific distribution records indicate presence in the southwestern United States and Mexico, with records extending through Middle America.
Diet
As a member of , this is a pollen and nectar feeder. The and specific epithet suggest specialization on creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), though the breadth of its floral associations has not been fully documented.
Host Associations
- Larrea tridentata - pollen/nectar sourceStrongly implied by and specific epithet; primary or exclusive floral suspected but not confirmed in published literature
Behavior
Nests in soil as a mining , excavating burrows for rearing. Specific nesting behaviors for this have not been documented.
Ecological Role
, likely with significant role in creosote bush given its apparent association.
Similar Taxa
- Other Ancylandrena speciesSimilar size and general ; distinguished by specificity and geographic range where ranges overlap
- Other Andrenidae mining beesSimilar nesting biology and general appearance; requires examination of morphological details and associations for identification
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Megandrena larreae by Timberlake in 1951, later transferred to the Ancylandrena. This taxonomic shift reflects refined understanding of relationships within the .
Data Limitations
This is poorly documented in scientific literature. The 12 iNaturalist observations suggest it is rarely encountered or underreported, possibly due to its occurrence in remote arid and specialized tied to creosote bush flowering.