Melissodes coreopsis

Robertson, 1905

Tickseed Longhorn Bee

Melissodes coreopsis is a of long-horned in the , described by Robertson in 1905. The 'Tickseed Longhorn Bee' reflects its association with Coreopsis flowers. Like other members of the Melissodes, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee that contributes to of wildflowers. Males of this genus are known to form sleeping on vegetation at night while females nest underground.

Melissodes coreopsis, F, Face, WY, Park County 2014-04-25-13.59.26 ZS PMax (14081024712) by USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab from Beltsville, Maryland, USA. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Melissodes coreopsis: /mɛˈlɪs.oʊ.diːz kɔːr.iˈɒp.sɪs/

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

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Habitat

Occurs in open where Coreopsis grow, including prairies, meadows, and glades. Associated with lance-leaved coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) and other composite flowers that provide pollen and nectar resources.

Distribution

North America and Middle America. Records indicate presence in the United States, with specific observations from Missouri and surrounding regions.

Seasonality

Active in spring when Coreopsis flowers bloom. Field observations from Missouri document activity during spring wildflower season, particularly when lance-leaved coreopsis is in full bloom.

Diet

feed on pollen and nectar, primarily from Coreopsis and other composite flowers (Asteraceae).

Host Associations

  • Coreopsis lanceolata - POLLINATOR_OFObserved foraging on lance-leaved coreopsis flowers
  • Coreopsis - POLLINATOR_OF-level association reflected in epithet

Life Cycle

Solitary ground-nesting . Females excavate individual burrows in soil. Males do not participate in nest construction and are known to form sleeping on vegetation at night.

Behavior

Males form overnight sleeping clusters on stems and flowers, characteristic of the Melissodes. Males are territorial and defend flower resources for females of their . Males cannot ; only females possess .

Ecological Role

of wildflowers, particularly Coreopsis and other Asteraceae. Contributes to in prairie and glade .

Similar Taxa

  • Melissodes agilisSimilar male sleeping and flower association, but M. agilis is associated with different plants including Mexican sunflower (Tithonia)
  • Melissodes robustiorSimilar and ; males form sleeping clusters on flowers, distinguished by subtle morphological differences requiring expert identification

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