Triepeolus loomisorum

Rozen, 1989

Triepeolus loomisorum is a cleptoparasitic in the Apidae, first described by Rozen in 1989. As a member of the Triepeolus, it is a cuckoo bee that does not construct nests or gather pollen, instead laying in the nests of bees. The species is known from the United States and Mexico.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Triepeolus loomisorum: //traɪˈɛpiələs ˌluːmɪˈsɔːrəm//

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Distribution

United States and Mexico.

Host Associations

Epeolus - parasitizesTriepeolus are in the nests of Epeolus and related bees
Svastra - parasitizesBased on documented associations for the Triepeolus

Behavior

Female Triepeolus loomisorum are that lay in the nests of bees. They do not gather pollen or construct nests.

Ecological Role

As a cleptoparasitic , this acts as a regulator of its bee species. It contributes to bee dynamics and may serve as an indicator of healthy host populations.

Similar Taxa

Triepeolus concavusSimilar cuckoo bee and cleptoparasitic in the same
Triepeolus punctoclypeusCongeneric with similar cleptoparasitic
Epeolus speciesRelated cleptoparasitic bees in the same tribe Epeolini, may share relationships

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The name 'loomisorum' honors the Loomis , likely recognizing their contributions to entomology or research.

Research Context

Triepeolus are frequently documented in studies of California native , including research on hedgerow restoration and plantings, though specific records for T. loomisorum in these studies are not distinguished from .