description Andrena astragali Overview
Andrena astragali is a species of solitary mining bee in the genus Andrena, described in 1914 and native to western North America. Females of this species are oligolectic, gathering pollen from a narrow range of host plants, and are noted for collecting pollen from Toxicoscordion death camas, a plant toxic to many animals. Like other Andrena species, females excavate ground nests in soil, and the genus is one of the largest groups of solitary bees.
help Andrena astragali FAQ
What is unique about the Andrena astragali bee's diet?
This North American mining bee is notable for gathering pollen specifically from toxic death camas plants. It relies on these poisonous plants of the genus Toxicoscordion.
When was the Andrena astragali bee first described?
The species was officially described in 1914. It belongs to the genus Andrena, which is composed of ground-nesting mining bees.
How does the Andrena astragali handle toxic plants?
The Andrena astragali has evolved to exclusively gather pollen from the highly toxic death camas flower. This adaptation allows it to thrive where other pollinators cannot.
Where does the Andrena astragali mining bee live?
It is a ground-nesting bee native to North America. Because of its specialized diet, it lives exclusively in habitats where the toxic death camas plant grows.
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