Ericrocis pintada

Distinguished from other Ericrocis species by specific color pattern details referenced in the original description (Snelling & Zavortink, 1985). Separation from other cleptoparasitic bees in the same tribe (Ericrocis, Epicharis, etc.) requires examination of morphological characters including wing venation, facial markings, and genitalia. Can be distinguished from its hosts (Centris species) by the absence of scopae on the hind legs and the generally more slender, less hairy appearance typical of cuckoo bees.

Medium-sized bee with a robust, somewhat hairy body typical of the tribe Ericrocidini. The specific epithet 'pintada' (Spanish for 'painted') suggests distinctive coloration or patterning, though detailed published descriptions of the species' morphology are sparse. Females possess a stinger and lack pollen-collecting structures (scopae), consistent with cleptoparasitic habits. Males and females likely exhibit sexual dimorphism in size and possibly coloration.

Associated with habitats where host Centris bees occur, including tropical and subtropical dry forests, scrublands, and areas with oil-producing flowers. Specific microhabitat preferences are poorly documented but likely include nesting aggregations of host bees in sandy or well-drained soils.

Documented from Central America and North America. GBIF records indicate presence in Middle America (Mexico and Central America) and North America. The species likely occurs in the southwestern United States and Mexico, extending southward through Central America, though precise range boundaries are not well established.

Adult activity presumably coincides with the nesting period of host Centris species, which typically peaks in warm months. Specific flight period data are not available.

• Centris - presumed hostEricrocidini are specialized cleptoparasites of Centris; specific host species for E. pintada not documented

Cleptoparasitic: females enter host nests and lay eggs in cells provisioned by Centris bees. Larvae consume the host's pollen and oil provisions and typically kill the host larva. Adults do not construct nests or collect provisions.

Acts as a population regulator of oil-collecting bees. As a cleptoparasite, it contributes to bee community dynamics and may influence nesting behavior and distribution of its Centris hosts. Pollination services are incidental and minimal compared to non-parasitic bees.

No direct economic importance. Of interest to bee biologists studying cleptoparasitism and oil-collecting bee ecology. Observations contribute to understanding of bee diversity in poorly studied regions.

• Ericrocis lataCongeneric species with similar cleptoparasitic biology; distinguished by morphological details in original descriptions
• Epicharis spp.Other Ericrocidini with similar appearance and biology; Epicharis species are generally larger and have different wing venation
• Centris spp.Host bees that may be confused with E. pintada; Centris species have dense scopae on hind legs for oil and pollen collection and more robust, hairier bodies

• bee
• cleptoparasite
• cuckoo bee
• Apidae
• Ericrocidini
• Centris parasite
• oil-digger bee parasite
• Hymenoptera
• North America
• Central America
• insect
• pollinator community

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life