Ceratina sequoiae
Michener, 1936
small carpenter bee
Ceratina sequoiae is a small carpenter bee in the Apidae, described by Michener in 1936. It is native to North America and has been documented as a of Clarkia flowers. Like other members of the Ceratina, it is a solitary that nests in pithy or hollow plant stems. The is part of a broader group of small carpenter bees that contribute to wild bee diversity and function, though specific ecological studies on this species remain limited.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ceratina sequoiae: /ˌsɛrəˈtaɪnə sɪˈkwɔːiˌiː/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Ceratina sequoiae can be distinguished from other small carpenter bees by its association with Clarkia flowers and its North American distribution. Within the Ceratina, identification typically requires examination of morphological characters such as facial markings, genitalia, and subtle differences in coloration and patterns. The species was described by Michener in 1936, and accurate identification generally requires reference to original descriptions or specialized keys.
Habitat
Associated with where Clarkia flowers occur; specific habitat preferences beyond this relationship have not been well documented.
Distribution
North America. Specific range boundaries within North America have not been precisely defined in available sources.
Diet
on Clarkia flowers for pollen and nectar collection.
Host Associations
- Clarkia - Primary floral for pollen and nectar collection
Life Cycle
As a member of the Ceratina, it is presumed to follow the typical small carpenter bee : solitary nesting in pithy plant stems, with females constructing partitioned provisioned with pollen and nectar for larval development. However, specific life cycle details for C. sequoiae have not been documented.
Behavior
Observed visiting Clarkia flowers. Like other Ceratina , females are expected to be solitary nesters, though specific behavioral observations for this species are not recorded.
Ecological Role
of Clarkia, contributing to plant and participating in pollination networks within its range. As a solitary wild , it represents part of the functional diversity of native bee that support stability.
Human Relevance
Contributes to wild diversity and function. No specific agricultural or economic significance has been documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Ceratina speciesShare general of small carpenter bees; require detailed examination for -level identification
- Lasioglossum (sweat bees)Similar small size and metallic coloration in some , but differ in nesting and wing venation
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Charles Duncan Michener in 1936, a prominent hymenopterist whose work established much of the modern classification for bees.
Research context
The Ceratina has been highlighted in global studies of wild diversity and crop pollination, though C. sequoiae specifically is not among the crop-visiting identified in large- analyses.