California Bumble Bee

Bombus californicus

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bombus californicus: //ˈbɒmbəs ˌkælɪˈfɔːrnɪkəs//

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

Images

Bombus (Fervidobombus) californicus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Bombus (Fervidobombus) californicus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Bombus (Fervidobombus) californicus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Bombus (Fervidobombus) californicus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Bombus (Fervidobombus) californicus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Bombus (Fervidobombus) californicus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Bombus californicus, the California bumble bee, is a species in the family Apidae and subgenus Thoracobombus, known for its varied color patterns and important role as a pollinator in its native habitats. It faces conservation challenges and may be mistaken for other bumble bee species.

Physical Characteristics

Color pattern of typical Californian females is black with a single strong yellow band on the thorax and another near the abdomen; males exhibit considerable variation. Black hairs on Terga 1-4 are present, particularly in extensively yellow specimens from eastern areas which resemble Bombus fervidus.

Identification Tips

In the eastern part of its range, best identification may rely on the presence of black hairs on Terga, which are inconspicuous in Bombus fervidus.

Habitat

Commonly found in oak woodland savannah at relatively low elevations, in wooded areas, and urban areas.

Distribution

Found in Central America and the western half of North America, particularly in California.

Diet

Pollinates a variety of flowers such as California poppies, sage, blueberry bushes, and red clover.

Life Cycle

Queens emerge from April through mid-July; workers are present from April to September, and males from late May through September.

Reproduction

Bombus californicus nests in the ground.

Conservation Status

Vulnerable according to IUCN; found to be endangered in 62% of surveyed areas in a 2015 study.

Ecosystem Role

Important pollinator for various wild and agricultural plants.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting
  • Trapping

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinning

Evolution

Taxonomic status is controversial; some authorities view it as a subspecies or color variety of Bombus fervidus, based on similarities in color patterns and molecular markers.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Bombus californicus with Bombus fervidus due to overlapping color patterns.

Tags

  • Bumblebee
  • Pollinator
  • California
  • Vulnerable
  • Apidae