Anthidium maculifrons

Smith, 1854

Spot-fronted Wool-carder Bee

Anthidium maculifrons is a of wool- in the Megachilidae, native to North and Middle America. Like other members of its , females collect plant fibers from hairy leaves to construct their nests, a that gives the group its . Males are known to be territorial and defend floral resources. The species is distinguished from by specific markings on the .

Anthidium maculifrons, M, back, Florida, St. Jonhs 2013-02-06-14.00.34 ZS PMax (8468153487) by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory from Beltsville, USA. Used under a Public domain license.Anthidium maculifrons, M, face, Florida, St. Johns 2013-02-06-14.07.50 ZS PMax (8468153147) by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory from Beltsville, USA. Used under a Public domain license.Anthidium maculifrons (head) from Fort Matanzas National Monument, Florida - USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory from Beltsville, USA. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Anthidium maculifrons: /ænˈθɪdiəm mæˌkjuːlɪˈfrɒnz/

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Identification

Distinguished from other Anthidium by maculations (spots or markings) on the ; specific pattern of pale markings on the distinguishes it from the widespread European wool carder bee (Anthidium manicatum), which has been introduced to North America. Females possess the characteristic dense scopal hairs on the underside of the for carrying pollen, typical of Megachilidae.

Images

Distribution

Recorded from the United States and Mexico; distribution spans Middle America and North America.

Ecological Role

As a member of Megachilidae, serves as a ; females are solitary nesters that provision with pollen and nectar.

Similar Taxa

Sources and further reading