Stelis texana
(Thorp, 1966)
Stelis texana is a of cuckoo bee in the Megachilidae, described by Thorp in 1966. Like other members of the Stelis, this species is a that lays its in the nests of other bees, particularly those in the family Megachilidae. The species is known from Texas and adjacent regions in North America. Records indicate presence in Middle America and North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Stelis texana: /ˈste.lɪs tɛkˈsa.na/
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Identification
As a member of the Stelis, this likely exhibits the typical morphological features of cuckoo bees: relatively slender body form, reduced scopa (pollen-carrying structures) compared to non-parasitic bees, and often distinctive coloration patterns. Specific diagnostic features distinguishing S. texana from would require examination of type material or detailed taxonomic descriptions.
Distribution
Known from Texas and adjacent regions in North America. GBIF records indicate presence in Middle America and North America.
Diet
As a cleptoparasitic , larvae develop by consuming the food stores (pollen and nectar provisions) intended for the 's offspring rather than feeding directly. may visit flowers for nectar.
Host Associations
- Megachilidae - Stelis are of other megachilid bees
Behavior
As a , females likely enter nests to lay in provisioned . The Stelis larva typically kills the host egg or larva and consumes the stored provisions.
Ecological Role
Acts as a within , potentially influencing of bee .
Similar Taxa
- Stelis ornatulaAnother Stelis ; S. texana differs in geographic distribution and likely morphological details
- Other Stelis speciesGeneric similarities in cleptoparasitic lifestyle and megachilid associations; specific identification requires detailed examination