Eucera

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eucera: /juːˈsɛrə/

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Summary

Eucera is a genus of solitary bees known as long-horned bees, belonging to the family Apidae. They are characterized by their long antennae, especially in males, and play a vital role in the pollination of various plants. They nest in the ground and can be found in diverse habitats throughout the Holarctic region.

Physical Characteristics

Males have very long antennae; a noticeable protuberance of the clypeus; dark in color with a thick layer of fur; typically 11 to 18 mm long.

Identification Tips

Look for the long antennae, protruding clypeus, and the stripes across the abdomen that can form a continuous circle.

Habitat

Diverse habitats including meadows, fields, and urban gardens, typically in well-drained, sandy soils.

Distribution

Holarctic region, including parts of Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America.

Diet

Primarily nectar and pollen from various flowering plants; they are generalist pollinators, though some species have specific plant preferences.

Life Cycle

Active from spring to fall, coinciding with the blooming period of preferred flowering plants.

Reproduction

Solitary nesting behavior; females build and provision their own nests in the ground.

Predators

Nomada genus (kleptoparasites) may target Eucera for their nesting sites.

Ecosystem Role

Important pollinators of a wide variety of flowering plants, contributing to plant reproduction.

Evolution

Eucera originated in the Nearctic region during the late Oligocene and underwent multiple dispersals into cooler regions.

Similar Taxa

• Nomada
• Anthophora
• Bombus

Misconceptions

Eucera bees are often confused with social bees but are solitary in nature.

Tags

• bees
• Eucera
• pollinators
• solitary bees
• Apidae
• Hymenoptera