Honey, Bumble, Longhorn, Orchid, and Digger Bees
Apinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Apidae
- Subfamily: Apinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Apinae: /ˈæpɪniː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
The Apinae subfamily encompasses a variety of important bee species including bumblebees, honey bees, and orchid bees, with most species being solitary and some tribes being kleptoparasitic.
Distribution
450 spp. in 34 genera of 12 tribes in our area; >3,500 spp. in ~160 genera of 20 tribes worldwide.
Diet
Most species gather pollen, though some gather floral oils for larval food.
Ecosystem Role
Majority of bees in the family Apidae, including pollinators and some kleptoparasitic species.
Evolution
Recent molecular phylogenetic studies suggest paraphyly of Apinae with respect to both Xylocopinae and Nomadinae, leading to ongoing debates about classification.
Similar Taxa
- Xylocopinae
- Nomadinae
- Anthophoridae
Misconceptions
Some tribes of Apinae are entirely kleptoparasitic, which may lead to misunderstandings about their ecological roles.
Tags
- Apinae
- bees
- hymenoptera
- pollinators