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Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee

Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee

Megachile melanophaea

A species of Leafcutter bees

Females are 12 to 14 millimetres (0.47 to 0.55 in) long while males are 9 to 12 millimetres (0.35 to 0.47 in). The head is black and is clothed with brownish-black hairs except around the lower part of the face and the base of the antennae where the hairs are yellowish-white. The thorax is densely pubescent, the hairs being yellowish-white on the back and sides and brownish-black on the underparts and legs. The wings are translucent with brownish-black veins. The first two terga (dorsal plates) of the abdomen have erect pale hairs and the hind terga have erect black hairs. The scopa (pollen-carrying apparatus under the abdomen) has reddish-brown hairs.

General Info About Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
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Attributes of Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
hole in the ground; flower
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, plant sap
Larva Food Source
Pollen, nectar
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Predators of Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee Larvae
Birds, small mammals, arachnids, insects
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Predators of Adult Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
Birds, spiders, reptiles, insects
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Interesting Facts About Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee collect plant fibers meticulously to construct secure nests, showcasing a remarkable example of animal architecture and resourcefulness.
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Scientific Classification of Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
Tips for Finding Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
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Adult Habitat of Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Savannas, Mangroves and Coastal Wetlands
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Habitat Preferences of Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee Through Different Life Stages
To locate black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee's different growth stages, start by exploring hollow twigs or in pre-existing tunnels in wood for their larvae, often nestled within individual brood cells constructed from cut leaf pieces. These sheltered sites serve as nurturing chambers. Searching for adults requires visiting flowering plants during sunny days, as they're typically active pollinators. Finding their distinctive circular leaf cuttings in gardens can indicate nearby nesting sites. Though diligent, patience and careful observation of plant interactions are crucial for spotting these elusive stages in their natural habitats.
Are Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee harmful?
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Are Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee harmful to humans?

In general, black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee are not harmful to people, they are only interested in pollen and leaves. However, the black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee like other bees, has a tail pin that can be used from the guard. In addition, black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee has a developed and powerful jaw. So please don't mess with them, otherwise the black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee may bite and sting you.
Beneficial Effects of Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring
Black-and-gray leaf-cutter bee is a diligent pollinator, often seen buzzing from flower to flower. It is particularly fond of Asteraceae and fruit trees, attracted by their vivid colors and enticing scents. This bee collects pollen primarily to provision its offspring, packing the pollen into brood cells as a food source for the larvae.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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