Triepeolus quadrifasciatus

(Say, 1823)

Four-striped Longhorn-Cuckoo

Species Guides

1

Triepeolus quadrifasciatus is a cleptoparasitic in the Apidae, commonly known as the Four-striped Longhorn-Cuckoo. As a member of the tribe Epeolini, this is a of other bees, specifically targeting in the tribe Eucerini (long-horned bees). The species occurs throughout North America and has been documented visiting flowers of native plants including Dalea candida (White Prairie Clover) and Grindelia camporum (Great Valley gumplant).

Triepeolus quadrifasciatus atlanticus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Triepeolus quadrifasciatus atlanticus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Triepeolus quadrifasciatus atlanticus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Triepeolus quadrifasciatus: /triːˈɛpiːələs kˌwɒdrɪfæsiˈɑːtəs/

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

Images

Distribution

North America. Documented from Colorado, California, and across the Great Plains region. GBIF records indicate presence throughout North America.

Seasonality

have been observed from June to August, coinciding with bloom periods of plants such as Dalea candida.

Behavior

Females are that deposit in the nests of bees. The has been observed visiting flowers, with males potentially patrolling for mating opportunities with foraging females.

Ecological Role

As a cleptoparasitic , this functions as a natural control for its bees, primarily long-horned bees (Eucerini). It contributes to pollination through incidental pollen transfer during flower visitation.

Tags

Sources and further reading