Anthophorula chionura
(Cockerell, 1925)
Anthophorula chionura is a solitary ground-nesting in the Apidae. It constructs vertical burrows in sandy soil with lateral , which females provision with a mixture of pollen and nectar. The exhibits nest in favorable sites. Formerly classified under Exomalopsis, it was reassigned to Anthophorula based on morphological and biological characteristics.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Anthophorula chionura: /ænˌθɒfəˈruːlə ˌkaɪəˈnjʊərə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Habitat
Sandy soil nesting sites. Females excavate burrows in loose, sandy substrates suitable for vertical tunnel construction.
Distribution
North America.
Diet
forage for pollen and nectar. Larvae are provisioned with a pollen-nectar paste placed in individual .
Life Cycle
Females construct vertical burrows in soil with lateral . Each cell is provisioned with a pollen-nectar mixture before an is laid. Development occurs solitarily within individual cells.
Behavior
Solitary nesting with females constructing and provisioning nests independently. Exhibits nest in favorable sandy sites, with multiple females nesting in close proximity. Constructs vertical burrows with lateral arranged along the main tunnel.
Ecological Role
of flowering plants. Ground-nesting activity contributes to soil aeration.