Hesperapis regularis explained

Hesperapis regularis is an oligolectic bee in the family Melittidae.

Distribution

This bee is native to California,[1] and inhabits meadows, fields, and gardens, where it visits only flowers in the genus Clarkia. Numerous native species of Clarkia are found in California chaparral and woodlands, montane, and valley habitats.

Description

The bees eat nectar, but their larvae feed upon a mass composed of both nectar and Clarkia pollen, placed in chambers underground.[2]

Notes and References

  1. Krombein, K.V., et al. 1979. Catalog of Hymenoptera in America North of Mexico. Volume 2. Smithsonian Institution Press, p. 1980
  2. MacSwain, Raven & Thorp. 1973. Calif. Univ. Pubs. Ent. 70: 16-20.