Colletes fulgidus longiplumosus

Stephen, 1954

Long-plumed Cellophane Bee

Colletes fulgidus longiplumosus is a of plasterer bee in the Colletidae. Plasterer bees are solitary ground-nesting bees that line their burrows with a cellophane-like secretion from an abdominal gland. As a member of the Colletes, this subspecies shares the characteristic vernal activity pattern and ground-nesting typical of the group. The subspecific epithet 'longiplumosus' refers to notably long (feathery) hairs, likely a distinguishing feature from the nominate subspecies.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Colletes fulgidus longiplumosus: /kɔˈlɛtiːz ˈfʊldʒɪdəs ˌlɒŋɡɪˈpluːməsəs/

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

Identification

The subspecific distinction of longiplumosus from the nominate Colletes fulgidus fulgidus is based on the length and plumosity of body hairs. Microscopic examination is required for definitive identification. Within the Colletes, -level identification generally requires examination of genitalia in males and subtle morphological characters; the subspecies adds an additional layer of difficulty.

Appearance

As a of Colletes fulgidus, likely exhibits the metallic coloration common in the group. The subspecific name 'longiplumosus' indicates the presence of exceptionally long, (branched, feathery) hairs, presumably on the body or legs. Females carry pollen using scopal hairs on the hind legs rather than corbiculae ().

Habitat

As a ground-nesting plasterer bee, requires sandy or well-drained soils suitable for burrow excavation. Nesting typically occur in areas with sparse vegetation and full sun exposure. Specific preferences for this are not documented, but likely parallels other Colletes fulgidus in open, dry environments.

Distribution

Documented from Vermont, USA. GBIF records indicate presence in North America. The distribution range of this relative to the nominate form is not well established in available sources.

Seasonality

As a vernal in the Colletes, activity occurs in spring. Males typically emerge before females (protandry). Specific period for this is not documented.

Life Cycle

As with other Colletes, females construct individual subterranean burrows lined with a waterproof, cellophane-like secretion from the . Each burrow contains multiple provisioned with a semi-liquid mixture of nectar and pollen. A single is laid per cell. Larvae develop through summer and fall, pupating to emerge the following spring. No specific details documented for this .

Behavior

Solitary but nests in where soil conditions are favorable. Males patrol nesting areas seeking females. Females may emit a citrus-like odor from cephalic glands when handled, containing linalool and other compounds possibly involved in mate or nest recognition. No specific behavioral observations documented for this .

Ecological Role

of early spring flowering plants. As a ground-nesting , contributes to soil aeration through burrowing activity. Specific plant associations for this are not documented.

Human Relevance

Ground-nesting may occur in lawns and recreational areas, sometimes causing concern. However, plasterer bees are docile and extremely reluctant to sting. Beneficial as native .

Similar Taxa

Colletes fulgidus fulgidusNominate ; distinguished by shorter, less hairs
Colletes inaequalisSympatric vernal plasterer bee; requires microscopic examination for separation
Colletes thoracicusAnother vernal Colletes with overlapping range and season; morphologically similar

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The subspecific status of longiplumosus is accepted in major databases (GBIF, Catalogue of Life), but detailed comparative descriptions are sparse in accessible literature. The was described by Stephen in 1954.