Calliopsis pugionis

Cockerell, 1925

Pugnosed Miner Bee

Calliopsis pugionis is a solitary ground-nesting in the Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1925. It is found in North America, where it excavates burrows in sandy soil. The exhibits with females larger than males, and has a female-biased investment sex ratio consistent with local mate competition theory. It serves as the for the cleptoparasitic bee Holcopasites ruthae.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Calliopsis pugionis: /kəˈlaɪɒpsɪs pjuːdʒiˈoʊnɪs/

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

Habitat

Sandy soil for nesting; open supporting plants for foraging.

Distribution

North America.

Diet

Pollen and nectar collected from plants.

Host Associations

Holcopasites ruthae - Holcopasites ruthae is a cleptoparasitic that exploits nests of Calliopsis pugionis, with females entering burrows to lay .

Life Cycle

Solitary nesting: females excavate burrows in sandy soil and provision with pollen and nectar. present with females larger than males. Investment sex ratio is female-biased.

Behavior

Females construct and provision nests solitarily. Nest has been observed. Males are smaller than females and likely patrol nesting areas.

Ecological Role

of flowering plants. Serves as for cleptoparasitic bees, contributing to dynamics.