Ceratina mikmaqi
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Apidae
- Subfamily: Xylocopinae
- Genus: Ceratina
- Species: mikmaqi
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ceratina mikmaqi: /sɛrəˈtiːnə mɪkˈmɑːki/
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Summary
Ceratina mikmaqi is a species of small carpenter bee that exhibits solitary to subsocial behaviors, with some similar species showing social nesting characteristics. It is part of a diverse genus known for their nesting in dead plant materials and varying reproductive strategies.
Physical Characteristics
Female: Length 6-8mm; Male: Length 5-7mm. Commonly dark, shining, metallic bees, with fairly sparse body hairs and a weak scopa on the hind tibia.
Identification Tips
Can be mistaken for sweat bees (family Halictidae) due to small size and metallic coloration; can be distinguished by long glossa and hindwings with a tiny jugal lobe.
Habitat
Nests are made in dead wood, stems, or pith.
Distribution
Maine south to Virginia, west to Nebraska, north to North Dakota.
Diet
Mainly nectar and pollen from various flowering plants.
Life Cycle
Breeds from May to September; some species may have bivoltine nesting phenology.
Reproduction
Some species are parthenogenetic and may reproduce without males. Cooperative nesting has been documented in certain species (e.g., Ceratina australensis) where females share nesting responsibilities.
Ecosystem Role
Pollinators, contributing to the pollination of flowering plants.
Evolution
Part of the tribe Ceratinini; around 300 species in the genus Ceratina, which reflects significant evolutionary adaptations for solitary and subsocial lifestyles.
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for sweat bees due to size and coloration, leading to confusion in identification.
Tags
- Ceratina
- small carpenter bee
- Hymenoptera
- pollinator