Coelioxys aztecus
Cresson, 1878
Coelioxys aztecus is a of cuckoo bee in the Megachilidae. As a member of the Coelioxys, this species is an obligate (kleptoparasite) of other bees, primarily targeting leafcutter bees (Megachile). The species was described by Cresson in 1878 and occurs in Middle America. Like other Coelioxys, females possess a distinctive pointed adapted for inserting into nest .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coelioxys aztecus: //ˌsiː.liˈɒk.sɪs æzˈtɛk.əs//
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Identification
Members of Coelioxys can be distinguished from other megachilid bees by the sharply pointed or tapered of females, an for -laying in . Males typically have broader, blunter abdomens. Coelioxys generally lack pollen-collecting scopae on the abdomen, unlike their Megachile hosts. Specific identification of C. aztecus requires examination of morphological details such as punctation patterns, coloration, and genitalia structure; the species name 'aztecus' suggests a Mexican distribution.
Distribution
Middle America (Mexico and Central America).
Host Associations
- Megachile - Coelioxys are obligate kleptoparasites of Megachile leafcutter bees; females insert into nest , and larvae consume the host provision and often the host egg or larva
Ecological Role
As a , Coelioxys aztecus functions as a regulator of its bees. Cuckoo bees contribute to dynamics by exerting on host nesting and defensive strategies. They do not construct nests or collect pollen, instead relying entirely on host resources for .
Similar Taxa
- Coelioxys sodalisAnother Coelioxys with similar and parasitic lifestyle; requires detailed examination to distinguish
- Coelioxys octodentatusOverlapping distribution and associations; similar pointed abdominal structure in females
- Coelioxys rufitarsisWidespread North American with similar kleptoparasitic ; C. aztecus distinguished by geographic range and subtle morphological differences
More Details
Taxonomic note
The specific epithet 'aztecus' reflects the ' description from Mexico, named in reference to the Aztec civilization. The Coelioxys contains approximately 500 species worldwide, with highest diversity in the Holarctic region.
Parasitic biology
Coelioxys females are known for their rapid, darting patterns as they search for nests. Upon locating a nest, the female enters during the host's absence, uses her pointed to slice through the leaf or mud cap of the host , and deposits an on or near the host egg or larva. The Coelioxys larva typically has enlarged used to kill the host egg or young larva, then consumes the pollen-nectar provision.