SCIENTIFIC NAME
Macropis
DESCRIPTION
Oil-collecting bees are small to medium sized (seven to 12 mm) with a robust body. Females of this genus are characterized by their legs as they are modified for the collection and transportation of floral oil: the hind legs have a wider area covered in fine, feathery hairs.
RANGE
HABITAT
DIET
BEHAVIOUR
undefinedPRIMARY ECOSYSTEM ROLES
Feeding Habits
These bees are specialists of the loosestrife flowers (Lysimachia) and they can only be found near these plants. They use the oil produced by the flowers instead of nectar to feed themselves and their young. They mix the oil with pollen to create food resources for their offspring. Females also use the oil to line their nest cells as its content is water-resistant.
Nesting Habits
Oil-collecting bees generally nest in burrows made in the soil. They like well-drained soils, often in sandy areas and will nest near their host plants. Although solitary, Macropis bees often nest in small aggregations on sloping banks. Their nests are shallow, and mothers tend to hide the nest entrance under plant cover to prevent predators’ attacks.
Neat Fact
Adults will visit other flowers to feed themselves with nectar as Lysimachia flowers do not produce any.
