Anthidiellum perplexum
(Smith, 1854)
Perplexing Rotund-Resin Bee
Anthidiellum perplexum is a solitary in the Megachilidae, commonly known as the Perplexing Rotund-Resin Bee. The is known from North America, with 309 iNaturalist observations documenting its occurrence. Mating has been studied in detail: males patrol nesting areas and pounce on females, which resist through kicking, biting, or abdominal curling. Successful copulation lasts 10-30 seconds. The specific epithet "perplexum" refers to the species' puzzling or confusing nature.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Anthidiellum perplexum: /ænˌθɪdiˈɛləm pərˈplɛksəm/
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Habitat
Nesting areas where females construct nests; specific requirements not documented.
Distribution
North America; records indicate presence across the continent.
Behavior
Males patrol nesting areas and pounce on females to attempt copulation. Females resist mating attempts through kicking, biting, or curling the . Successful copulation has been observed to last 10-30 seconds. Males do not produce -specific sounds during mating.
Similar Taxa
- Anthidiellum notatumSympatric congeneric with similar male patrolling and pouncing mating ; distinguished by specific morphological features not detailed in available sources.
More Details
Etymology
The specific epithet perplexum means "perplexing" in Latin, referring to the ' confusing or puzzling characteristics.
Mating Biology
Unlike some bees that use -specific acoustic signals during courtship, males of A. perplexum do not produce such sounds. Female resistance (kicking, biting, abdominal curling) are active components of the mating interaction.