description Andrena asteris Overview
Andrena asteris is a species of solitary mining bee native to North America. Originally described by entomologist Charles Robertson in 1891, the insect belongs to the family Andrenidae. It is distinguished by its oligolectic foraging behavior, meaning it specifically collects pollen from asters and related plants in the composite family. These bees typically nest in the ground and are active during the late summer and fall blooming periods of their host plants.
help Andrena asteris FAQ
What is Andrena asteris?
Andrena asteris is a North American solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. Charles Robertson formally described the species in 1891.
Why is Andrena asteris called an oligolectic bee?
It is oligolectic because females collect pollen from a narrow group of related plants rather than using almost any flower available. The species is associated particularly with asters and other plants in the aster family.
Does Andrena asteris live in a hive like a honeybee?
No, it is a solitary bee, so individual females generally construct and provision their own underground nests. Unlike the western honeybee, Andrena asteris does not maintain a large social colony.
Is Andrena asteris dangerous to people?
Mining bees such as Andrena asteris are generally not aggressive because they do not defend a communal hive. Their small size and solitary nesting behavior make them very different from colony-forming bees such as Apis mellifera.
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