Leafcutter, Mason, and Resin Bees, and allies
Megachilidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Megachilidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Megachilidae: //ˌmɛɡəˈkɪlɪdiː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Megachilidae is a diverse family of solitary bees known for their unique nesting behaviors and role as effective pollinators. They include mason bees and leafcutter bees, with a significant portion of species present in both native and introduced contexts.
Physical Characteristics
Megachilidae are characterized by a scopa on the ventral surface of the abdomen for pollen collection and an elongated labrum. They vary in size from 6 to 18 mm.
Identification Tips
Look for the scopa (pollen-carrying structure) on the abdomen and front wings with two submarginal cells.
Habitat
Nests are often built in natural or artificial cavities; some species use hollow stems or tubes, while others nest in ground or wood.
Distribution
Megachilidae are cosmopolitan, with approximately 630 species in North America and around 4,100 species globally.
Diet
All species feed on nectar and pollen, with some kleptoparasitic species stealing pollen from other bees.
Life Cycle
Nonparasitic species divide their nests into cells, provisioning each cell with food and an egg. The larvae consume the food, pupate in a cocoon, and emerge as adults. Males often die shortly after mating.
Reproduction
Females build nests in above-ground cavities, stocking cells with food before laying eggs. Some genera are brood parasites, laying their eggs in the nests of other species.
Ecosystem Role
Megachilidae play a significant role in pollination, especially of crops and wild plants.
Economic Impact
Some species, like Megachile rotundata (alfalfa leafcutter bee), are cultivated for agricultural pollination.
Cultural Significance
Megachilidae have inspired scientific interest and literature, particularly through observations by naturalists like Jean-Henri Fabre.
Collecting Methods
- Nest blocks with preformed holes
- Artificial cavities
Evolution
Fossil evidence suggests that leaf-cutting behavior began in the Middle Eocene, indicating an early evolutionary origin of the group.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some species are confused with other parasitic bees; however, most Megachilidae are solitary and non-parasitic.
Tags
- Megachilidae
- leafcutter bees
- mason bees
- pollinators
- bee diversity