Black-tailed Bumble Bee

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bombus melanopygus: /ˈbɔm.bʊs mɛ.ləˈnɒ.pɪ.ɡəs/

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Summary

Bombus melanopygus, also known as the black-tailed bumble bee, is a native species to western North America characterized by two color forms and a wide habitat range.

Physical Characteristics

Two forms: Red form (Bombus melanopygus melanopygus) primarily has red on the second and third abdominal segments found in higher latitudes; Dark color form (Bombus melanopygus edwardsii) has black on those segments commonly found in southern populations.

Identification Tips

Look for the contrasting red or black coloration on the abdomen; red form has red segments, while the dark color form is predominantly black.

Habitat

Utilizes various habitat types including dry chaparral, agricultural, and urban areas, particularly in western North America.

Distribution

Widely distributed across western North America from the Pacific to the Rocky Mountains, ranging from Alaska to Baja California.

Diet

Feeds on a variety of plants including manzanitas, Ceanothus, goldenbushes, wild buckwheats, lupines, penstemons, rhododendrons, willows, sages, and clovers.

Predators

Host to the zombie fly (Apocephalus borealis).

Ecosystem Role

Pollinator in various habitats.

Evolution

Genetic analyses have shown that Bombus melanopygus and Bombus edwardsii are conspecific, with the latter being a synonym.

Similar Taxa

• Bombus edwardsii
• Bombus lacustris
• Bombus melampygus

Misconceptions

Some individuals thought to be Bombus edwardsii were previously classified separately due to color variation but are now recognized as the same species.

Tags

• Bumblebee
• Pollinator
• North America
• Apidae