Osmia distincta

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Megachilidae
Subfamily: Megachilinae
Tribe: Osmiini
Genus: Osmia
Species: distincta

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Osmia distincta: /ˈɒs.mi.ə dɪˈstɪŋk.tə/

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Images

Osmia distincta, side 2012-07-02-17.35.19 ZS PMax by Sam Droege. Used under a Public domain license.

Osmia distincta by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory. Used under a Public domain license.

Osmia distincta front by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory. Used under a Public domain license.

Summary

Osmia distincta is a North American bee species belonging to the family Megachilidae, known for its role as a pollinator of Penstemon flowers from March to July.

Physical Characteristics

Female: 9 mm; Male: 7-8 mm.

Identification Tips

Osmia distincta can be identified by its size and habitat preferences, particularly its association with the genus Penstemon.

Habitat

This species is commonly found in habitats ranging from grasslands to gardens where Penstemon flowers are present.

Distribution

North Dakota to Ontario and the New England states, south to Colorado, Tennessee, and North Carolina.

Diet

Osmia distincta primarily feeds on nectar and pollen from flowering plants, especially species in the genus Penstemon.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes larval development within nesting sites, which are often in pre-existing cavities.

Reproduction

Osmia distincta reproduces through solitary nesting; females create nests in available cavities and provision them with pollen and nectar for offspring.

Ecosystem Role

As a pollinator, Osmia distincta plays an important role in the pollination of various flowering plants, particularly those of the genus Penstemon.