Specialist-bee

Guides

• Cemolobus ipomoeae

  Cemolobus ipomoeae is a rarely encountered specialist bee in the family Apidae, tribe Eucerini. It is known for its obligate association with morning glory plants (Ipomoea), particularly Ipomoea pandurata. The species was first recorded in Mississippi in 2017, representing a significant southwestern range expansion from its previously documented distribution. As a pollen and nectar specialist, this bee plays a specific role in the pollination of its host plants.

  specialist-beepollinatorrange-expansionrare-speciesmorning-gloryIpomoeaEucerinilong-horned-beeoligolectic

• Xenoglossa angustior

  Red-tailed Squash Bee

  Xenoglossa angustior, the Red-tailed Squash Bee, is a specialist pollinator of cucurbits (Cucurbitaceae) in the tribe Eucerini. It is native to North and Middle America and shares the common name "squash bee" with the related genus Peponapis. Both genera are oligoleges that pollinate exclusively squash, pumpkins, gourds, cucumbers, and zucchini.

  squash-beecucurbit-pollinatoroligolecticground-nestingnative-beeEuceriniearly-morning-forageragricultural-pollinatorindigenous-agricultureNorth-AmericaMiddle-Americaspecialist-beesolitary-beeApidaeHymenopterapollinator-decline-riskpesticide-sensitivity