Common Long-horned Bee

Melissodes communis

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Melissodes communis: /mɛˈlɪsoʊˌdiːz kəˈmjuːnɪs/

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

Images

Melissodes communis, male, face 2012-06-29-16.10 by Sam Droege. Used under a Public domain license.
Melissodes communis, male, side 2012-07-02-17.10.44 ZS PMax (8133504155) by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory from Beltsville, USA. Used under a Public domain license.
Melissodes communis, female, side 2012-07-09-19.36 by Sam Droege. Used under a Public domain license.
Melissodes comptoides, female, back, Talbot Co, MD 2018-11-15-16.10.41 ZS PMax UDR (48834535881) by USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab from Beltsville, Maryland, USA. Used under a Public domain license.
Melissodes communis, male, side 2012-07-02-17 (19705634539) by USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab from Beltsville, Maryland, USA. Used under a Public domain license.
Melissodes communis, female, face 2012-07-09-19.22 by Sam Droege. Used under a Public domain license.

Summary

Melissodes communis, known as the common long-horned bee, is vital for pollination in North American and Central American ecosystems, distinguished by its long antennae and affinity for diverse flowering plants.

Physical Characteristics

Melissodes communis has long antennae and can vary in coloration, typically exhibiting a mix of shades that may include yellow and brown.

Identification Tips

Look for the elongated antennae which are a signature feature of long-horned bees. Males have longer antennae compared to females.

Habitat

Commonly found in various habitats including meadows, gardens, and agricultural areas, especially where flowering plants are abundant.

Distribution

Present in Central America and North America, often observed in regions with rich floral resources.

Diet

Melissodes communis primarily feeds on nectar and pollen from a variety of flowering plants.

Life Cycle

Life cycle consists of egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. The duration of each stage can vary based on environmental conditions.

Reproduction

Reproduces sexually, with females constructing nests in the ground or in other suitable substrates.

Predators

Predators include birds and other insects that may prey on bee species.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a crucial role in pollination of plants, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting during active hours
  • Ground sampling in nesting sites

Preservation Methods

  • Freezing
  • Drying specimens

Evolution

Part of the Apidae family, with adaptations that support their role as pollinators in various ecosystems, including specialized forms for different floral types.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often confused with other species of bees, particularly those in the same family; they are not aggressive and rarely sting unless provoked.

Tags

  • bee
  • pollinator
  • Apidae
  • apinae
  • Eucerini
  • hymenoptera