Bee-nest-associate
Guides
Aphomia terrenella
Terrenella Bee Moth
Aphomia terrenella, commonly known as the terrenella bee moth, is a small moth in the family Pyralidae. It occurs in eastern North America from the Great Lakes region south to Georgia. The species is associated with bee nests, where its larvae have been observed feeding on honeycomb and possibly bee larvae. Adults are active during late spring and summer.
Ptinus sexpunctatus
six-spotted spider beetle, six-spot spider beetle
Ptinus sexpunctatus is a small spider beetle (4–5 mm) native to the Palearctic region, now established as an invasive species in North America. It is distinguished by its uniform dark coloration with prominent white scale patches at the base and apex of the elytra, and deeply grooved elytra. The species has a commensal relationship with cavity-nesting solitary bees, with larvae developing in bee nests and feeding on host food provisions. It has been recorded as a potential pest in stored products and unheated outbuildings.