description Megachile maritima Overview
Megachile maritima is a Palearctic species of solitary leafcutter bee in the family Megachilidae, first described by William Kirby in 1802. It occurs in coastal and other sandy habitats, where females construct individual nests rather than living in eusocial colonies. Like other members of its genus, it transports pollen on specialized hairs beneath the abdomen and uses cut pieces of leaves while building brood cells.
help Megachile maritima FAQ
What kind of bee is Megachile maritima?
Megachile maritima is a Palearctic solitary leafcutter bee in the family Megachilidae. It is not a honey bee and does not live in a large eusocial colony.
Where does Megachile maritima live?
It occurs in coastal and other sandy habitats across parts of the Palearctic region. Its habitat explains the species name maritima and its association with open, sandy ground.
Does Megachile maritima live in a hive?
No, females construct individual nests rather than living in eusocial colonies. Like other Megachile leafcutter bees, it uses cut plant material when preparing nest cells.
Who first described Megachile maritima?
The species was first described by William Kirby in 1802. That early taxonomic record places Megachile maritima within the long-studied Palearctic bee fauna.
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