Ericrocis

Cresson, 1887

Species Guides

2

Ericrocis is a of kleptoparasitic bees in the Apidae, commonly known as centris-cuckoo bees. The genus comprises at least four described distributed in the southwestern United States and Mexico. As cuckoo bees, Ericrocis species do not construct their own nests but instead lay in the nests of bees, primarily in the genus Centris. The genus was established by Cresson in 1887 and belongs to the tribe Ericrocidini.

Ericrocis lata by (c) Tom Kennedy, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Tom Kennedy. Used under a CC-BY license.Ericrocis arizonensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Ericrocis arizonensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ericrocis: /ˌɛrɪˈkroʊsɪs/

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

Identification

Ericrocis can be distinguished from their Centris by their generally more slender body form and reduced scopal hairs on the hind legs, as females do not collect pollen. They typically exhibit dense, often silvery or pale . Males may be distinguished by genitalic characters, though species-level identification often requires examination of subtle morphological features such as facial markings and wing venation.

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Habitat

Arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico, including desert scrub, chaparral, and dry grassland . Associated with areas where Centris bees are active.

Distribution

Southwestern United States (Arizona, California, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico.

Seasonality

Active primarily during warm months when Centris bees are nesting; peak activity typically occurs in late spring through summer depending on locality and .

Diet

feed on nectar from flowers. Larvae consume provisions (nectar and pollen) stored in nests; females do not forage for pollen due to their kleptoparasitic lifestyle.

Host Associations

  • Centris - kleptoparasitePrimary ; Ericrocis females lay in Centris nests

Life Cycle

Development occurs within nests. Females enter unguarded Centris nests and deposit in . Larvae consume the host's provisioned food stores, typically killing the host egg or larva. occurs within the host cell; emerge to mate and seek new host nests.

Behavior

Females exhibit nest-searching , patrolling areas where Centris bees are active to locate unguarded nests. They may enter nests during absence to deposit . Males are often observed at flowers or in searching for females.

Ecological Role

Kleptoparasite (cuckoo bee) of Centris bees; acts as a natural regulator of populations. Contributes to pollination indirectly through nectar feeding.

Similar Taxa

  • MelectaAlso cuckoo bees in Apidae, but Melecta parasitizes Anthophora and related rather than Centris, and has different body proportions and patterns.
  • Centris ; Ericrocis mimic Centris in general appearance but can be distinguished by reduced pollen-collecting structures and more slender build.

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Sources and further reading