description Melissodes desponsus Overview
Melissodes desponsus, commonly called the eastern thistle long-horned bee, is a solitary bee in the family Apidae and genus Melissodes. It is native to the eastern United States and eastern Canada, where females nest in the ground and visit thistles and other flowers for pollen and nectar. The long-horned name refers especially to the very long antennae of males, a visible feature used in field identification.
help Melissodes desponsus FAQ
Where does Melissodes desponsus live?
Melissodes desponsus is native to the eastern United States and eastern Canada. It is commonly associated with open habitats where thistles and other flowering plants grow.
Why is Melissodes desponsus called the eastern thistle long-horned bee?
The name refers to its eastern North American range, frequent visits to thistles, and the notably long antennae of males. It belongs to the long-horned bee genus Melissodes.
Does Melissodes desponsus live in a hive?
No, it is a solitary bee rather than a honeybee or bumblebee living in a social colony. Females excavate individual nests in the ground and provision their own offspring.
What flowers does Melissodes desponsus visit?
Thistles are an important floral resource for this species, although females can visit other flowers for pollen and nectar. Its genus, Melissodes, includes many ground-nesting bees strongly linked to summer blooms.
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