Calliopsis rhodophila
Cockerell, 1897
Calliopsis rhodophila is a mining bee in the Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1897. The occurs in Central and North America, where it nests in sandy soils. Like other members of the , it is solitary and ground-nesting. Observations of related Calliopsis species suggest males are notably larger than typical for the genus and exhibit hovering near female nesting sites.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Calliopsis rhodophila: //ˌkæliˈɒpsɪs roʊˈdɒfɪlə//
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Identification
Distinguishing Calliopsis rhodophila from requires examination of morphological details; the Calliopsis generally comprises small mining bees with banded or patterned in many . Males of related species such as Calliopsis zebrata are described as surprisingly large compared to most Calliopsis. Precise identification relies on characters not reliably visible in field photographs.
Habitat
Sandy soils provide nesting substrate for ground-nesting bees in this . The has been documented in prairie and grassland environments where bare earth is available for burrow excavation.
Distribution
Central America and North America. GBIF records indicate presence in Middle America and North America.
Life Cycle
Solitary; females construct individual nests in burrows in sandy soil. No detailed description has been documented specifically for this .
Behavior
Males of related Calliopsis exhibit persistent hovering over nesting areas where females are present, landing only briefly. This creates the impression of swarming despite the solitary nature of the bees.
Ecological Role
As a ground-nesting mining bee, likely contributes to pollination of native flora and serves as prey or for cleptoparasitic bees and other natural enemies.
Similar Taxa
- Calliopsis zebrataCongeneric mining bee with similar and male size dimorphism; males described as notably large for the with hovering near nests.
- Other AndrenidaeGround-nesting solitary bees with similar size and general appearance; precise identification requires detailed morphological examination.