Nomia maneei
Cockerell, 1910
Manee's Nomia
Nomia maneei is a ground-nesting in the , first described by Cockerell in 1910. It belongs to the Nomia, which includes several of solitary bees that nest in soil. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its remain poorly documented compared to its Nomia melanderi, which is intensively managed for alfalfa pollination.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Nomia maneei: /ˈnoʊ.mi.ə ˈmæ.ni.aɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Nomia maneei can be distinguished from the closely related and well-studied Nomia melanderi (alkali ) by subtle morphological differences, though specific diagnostic characters require specialist examination. Members of the Nomia typically exhibit metallic coloration and possess specialized for ground nesting, including dense scopal hairs on the hind legs for pollen collection.
Images
Habitat
As a ground-nesting halictid , N. maneei likely inhabits areas with suitable soil substrates for nest excavation. Based on the of congeneric , this may include sandy or loamy soils in open .
Distribution
Recorded from North America. Specific locality data beyond this continental range is not well documented in available sources.
Diet
As with other in the Nomia, likely feed on nectar and collect pollen from available floral resources. Specific plant associations have not been documented.
Ecological Role
Likely functions as a in its native range, contributing to plant through pollen transfer during foraging activities.
Similar Taxa
- Nomia melanderiThe alkali is the most intensively studied , managed commercially for alfalfa pollination. N. maneei differs in distribution and lacks the extensive agricultural documentation of N. melanderi.
More Details
Data Deficiency
Nomia maneei is significantly less studied than its N. melanderi. Most available literature on Nomia focuses on the alkali due to its agricultural importance. The 29 iNaturalist observations suggest the is documented but not well characterized biologically.