Coelioxys texanus
Cresson, 1872
Coelioxys texanus is a of cuckoo bee in the Megachilidae, first described by Cresson in 1872. As a member of the Coelioxys, this species is a that lays its in the nests of other bees, primarily targeting leafcutter bees (Megachile species). The specific epithet "texanus" indicates a Texas association, likely reflecting the type locality or early collection records from that region. Like other Coelioxys species, females possess a pointed, conical adapted for inserting eggs into nest .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coelioxys texanus: //ˌsiːlɪˈɒksɪs tɛkˈsænəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Known from Texas and surrounding regions based on the specific epithet and collection records; exact range details require further verification from specimen data.
Ecological Role
As a cleptoparasitic , Coelioxys texanus functions as a nest of other Megachilidae, specifically targeting leafcutter bees (Megachile). The larva consumes the 's pollen/nectar provisions and typically kills the host or larva.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
- Bembicid Holdings | Entomology Research Museum
- California Has No State Bee--Yet! | Bug Squad
- Tracking Tetraopes texanus with Terry | Beetles In The Bush
- The Texas Prick | Beetles In The Bush
- Not-so Solitary Bees - Buglife Blog - Buglife
- Bug Eric: More Insects From Sunflowers