Calliopsis zebrata bobbae
(Rozen, 1958)
A of mining in the , known from sandy soils in Colorado and adjacent regions. Males are notably larger than typical for the Calliopsis and exhibit distinctive , hovering persistently over nesting sites. The subspecies was described by Rozen in 1958 and is part of the diverse bee fauna of western North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Calliopsis zebrata bobbae: //kæˈlaɪˌɔpsɪs zɛˈbrɑːtə ˈbɒbaɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Males are distinguished from other Calliopsis by their relatively large size; most Calliopsis are very small. Males relentlessly over bare sandy ground where females nest, landing only briefly. Females are ground-nesting mining . Separation from other of C. zebrata and from requires examination of morphological details not reliably visible in field observations.
Habitat
Sandy soils suitable for ground-nesting; found in plains and areas with bare earth .
Distribution
Colorado; western North America.
Life Cycle
Ground-nesting; females construct burrows in sandy substrate. Males aggregate in over nesting areas.
Behavior
Males exhibit persistent hovering over nesting sites, landing only momentarily. This creates the impression of swarming , though the is solitary.
Ecological Role
; visits flowers for nectar and pollen. Contributes to services in prairie and plains .
Similar Taxa
- Calliopsis zebrata zebrataNominate ; geographic separation and subtle morphological differences distinguish C. z. bobbae
- Other Calliopsis speciesMost are notably smaller than C. zebrata bobbae males