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Colletes hederae

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description Colletes hederae Overview

Colletes hederae, commonly called the ivy bee, is a solitary plasterer bee formally described as a distinct species in 1993. It occurs in Europe and is especially visible in late summer and autumn, when females collect pollen primarily from flowering ivy, although they can visit other plants. Females excavate individual nest burrows, often in dense aggregations in bare or sparsely vegetated soil. The species is useful to observers studying seasonal pollination and solitary bee nesting behavior.

help Colletes hederae FAQ

When was the ivy bee, Colletes hederae, first officially identified?

Colletes hederae, commonly known as the ivy bee, is a European plasterer bee that was formally described as recently as 1993. Despite being widespread, it was misidentified as a different species until scientists recognized its specific behaviors.

What makes the foraging behavior of the Colletes hederae unique?

The ivy bee is celebrated for its highly specialized late-autumn foraging, relying almost exclusively on flowering ivy (Hedera helix). This narrow diet means the bee's entire lifecycle is perfectly synchronized with the autumn blooming period of ivy plants.

What does the name 'plasterer bee' mean for Colletes hederae's nesting habits?

Colletes hederae belongs to a family of bees that secretes a cellophane-like substance to line their underground nests. This clear, waterproof coating protects their developing larvae from moisture and mold during the winter months.

Where does the Colletes hederae bee build its nesting aggregations?

These bees build their nests in the ground, often forming massive, dense aggregations of hundreds or thousands of individual burrows. They typically choose sandy banks and bare soil in sun-exposed areas to keep their nests warm.

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