Coelioxys porterae
Cockerell, 1900
Coelioxys porterae is a of kleptoparasitic in the , first described by Cockerell in 1900. As a member of the Coelioxys, commonly known as sharp-tailed bees or cuckoo , this species exhibits a parasitic lifestyle targeting other megachilid bees. The species is known from North America, with records from Vermont. Like other Coelioxys species, females likely in the nests of bees, where their consume the host's pollen provisions and kill the host egg or larva.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coelioxys porterae: /sɛl.iˈɒk.sɪs ˈpɔːr.tə.ri/
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Identification
Coelioxys porterae can be distinguished from other by the characteristic sharply pointed that gives the its "sharp-tailed bees." Males typically have more conspicuously modified abdominal tips than females. Within the genus Coelioxys, -level identification requires examination of specific morphological features including abdominal punctation, hair patterns, and genitalic structures. Differentiation from the similar genus Megachile (the ) is straightforward: Coelioxys species have a pointed, tapered abdomen rather than the broad, abdomen of Megachile.
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Habitat
As a parasitic , C. porterae is defined by that of its . Based on -level , this species likely occurs in areas supporting of Megachile , which nest in pre-existing cavities including hollow stems, borings in dead wood, and artificial bee hotels.
Distribution
North America; recorded from Vermont, United States.
Host Associations
- Megachile - -level association inferred from documented biology of Coelioxys; specific host for C. porterae not established
Behavior
As a kleptoparasitic , females are expected to locate active Megachile nests and between the leaf fragments lining . The resulting kill the host egg or larva and develop on the pollen-nectar provisions gathered by the host female.
Ecological Role
Acts as a control agent for populations. The parasitic lifestyle represents a natural ecological interaction within , with Coelioxys typically occurring at lower than their .
Human Relevance
May be observed by hotel users as a natural component of solitary bee . Presence indicates a functioning with established bee . No direct economic impact; considered a natural part of bee diversity.
Similar Taxa
- Coelioxys sodalisOverlapping North range; requires detailed morphological examination for separation
- Coelioxys moestaSimilar size and coloration; distinction relies on abdominal and genitalic characters
- Megachile species that share similar size and general appearance; distinguished by broad and lack of abdominal point
More Details
Taxonomic note
Coelioxys porterae was described by Theodore Dru Alison Cockerell in 1900. The specific epithet 'porterae' likely honors an individual, though the etymology is not documented in readily available sources.