description Xylocopa latipes Overview
Xylocopa latipes is a sizable carpenter bee found in tropical Southeast Asia. This extant species stands out due to its substantial size and entirely dark coloration. It creates nests within wood, primarily in trees, and is of interest to entomologists studying bee diversity and behavior. Researchers and hobbyists focused on observing insect nesting habits benefit from its readily observable construction process.
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Xylocopa latipes ranks #63 of 404 in the Bee ranking, behind Red-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus lapidarius), ahead of Osmia bicornis.
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What is Xylocopa latipes commonly known as?
Xylocopa latipes is commonly known as the tropical carpenter bee, a large, entirely dark-colored bee species found throughout Southeast Asia. It is notable among entomologists for its impressive size and loud, distinct buzzing flight.
Where does the Xylocopa latipes build its nest?
Unlike many bees that nest in the ground, Xylocopa latipes constructs its nests by burrowing into solid wood, primarily in dead trees or structural timber. This destructive nesting behavior is exactly why the species is referred to as a carpenter bee.
Are Xylocopa latipes bees dangerous to humans?
Despite their intimidating size and loud buzzing, female Xylocopa latipes bees are non-aggressive and will only sting if physically provoked. Males cannot sting at all, though they may hover defensively near humans who approach their territories.
What do Xylocopa latipes bees pollinate?
Xylocopa latipes bees are important pollinators for various tropical plant species, utilizing their large size to perform buzz pollination. They are particularly effective at pollinating deep-throated flowers that smaller bees cannot easily access.
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