Mason Bees
Osmia
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Megachilidae
- Subfamily: Megachilinae
- Tribe: Osmiini
- Genus: Osmia
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Osmia: //ˈɒz.mi.ə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Osmia, commonly known as mason bees, are solitary bees that build nests using mud and other materials. They play a crucial role in pollination, especially of early spring flowers. Their nesting habits make them valuable for agricultural pollination, though their populations face challenges from non-native species and competition.
Physical Characteristics
Metallic green to blue (sometimes all black), with robust body and no pygidial plate. Unique arolia between the front claws.
Identification Tips
Parapsidal lines are actually small pits rather than lines. Black ventral scopae are difficult to notice unless laden with pollen.
Habitat
Narrow gaps and naturally occurring tubular cavities. Common nesting sites include hollow twigs, abandoned nests of wood-boring beetles, snail shells, under bark, or small protected cavities.
Distribution
Holarctic, with some species ranging into the Neotropics. Over 300 species across the Northern Hemisphere, predominantly in temperate habitats.
Diet
Primarily feeds on pollen and nectar gathered from early spring flowers, especially in the family Rosaceae, and other Ericaceae.
Life Cycle
Solitary; females make their own nests without worker bees. They emerge, mate, then gather provisions to lay eggs in their nests.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs on a provision mass after mating, creating partitions with mud or similar materials. In some species, female eggs are laid in the back of the nest and male eggs near the front.
Ecosystem Role
Important pollinators for a variety of flowering plants, especially in spring.
Economic Impact
Some species are commercially cultivated as pollinators in agriculture, particularly for fruit and nut production.
Health Concerns
Although they do not produce honey, they are known to harbor unique parasites, pests, and diseases.
Collecting Methods
- Using nesting holes like reeds, paper tubes, nesting trays, or drilled blocks of wood.
- Transporting intact nests or loose cocoons when dormant.
Preservation Methods
- Cocoons should be stored in a cool, dry place during their dormant season.
Misconceptions
Historically, the term mason bee also referred to bees from other genera in Megachilidae, leading to confusion about which species are true 'mason bees.'
Tags
- Osmia
- Mason Bees
- Pollination
- Insects