Caupolicana ocellata
Michener, 1966
ocellate fork-tongue
Caupolicana ocellata is a of in the , commonly known as the ocellate fork-tongue. It was described by Michener in 1966. The species belongs to a of neotropical bees characterized by forked tongues, an for accessing nectar from specialized flowers. It occurs in Central America and North America, though specific details about its biology remain limited in published literature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Caupolicana ocellata: /kaʊpɔˈlikaːna oʊˈsɛlətə/
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Distribution
Central America and North America. GBIF records confirm presence in Middle America and North America.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Caupolicana belongs to the Diphaglossinae within , a of often called "" or "polyester bees" for their habit of lining nest with a cellophane-like secretion. The forked tongue characteristic of this genus is an unusual trait among bees, facilitating access to nectar in flowers with restrictive corolla shapes.