A species of Leafcutter bees, Also known as Giant Asian resin bee
The giant resin bee (Megachile sculpturalis) is a big fan of using the environment to their advantage, as they do not bore through wood. Instead, they use pre-existing holes and cap those holes with resin, which is where they earn their name. It is also much larger than other leafcutting bees (Megachilidae), which is where they get the "giant" part of their name.
Human Stinging
General Info About Giant resin bee
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Attributes of Giant resin bee
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
wooden structure (door; deck; porch)
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen
Larva Food Source
Pollen balls, nectar
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Giant resin bee is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Giant resin bee feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of Giant resin bee
It is native to Japan and China, it has been introduced to the Eastern United States and Ontario, Canada in recent times, and recorded as invasive in Europe in 2009.
Distribution Area of Giant resin bee
Japan, China, Eastern United States, Ontario, Canada
Appearance of Giant resin bee
Megachile sculpturalis can reach a can reach a body length of about 1.9 - 2 cm in malea, while females usually are larger than males, reaching about 2 - 2.5 cm. It is much bigger than most other leafcutting bees. The body is cylindrical, jaws are large and wings are transparent, with a brown color that darkens toward the tips. Head and abdomen are mainly black, the abdomen is rather shiny and without hairs, while thorax is covered with dense yellowish-brown pubescence.
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Youth Habitat of Giant resin bee
Rotting and Decaying Matter, Urban and Suburban Areas, Woodlands and Forests
Adult Habitat of Giant resin bee
Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Woodlands and Forests, Gardens and Orchards
How Can You Attract Giant resin bee
Sweet-smelling flowers and plants that are rich in nectar and pollen serve as excellent enticement for giant resin bee due to their foraging behavior.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Giant resin bee
Dry, warm weather with little to no wind is the most suitable condition to find giant resin bee, as they are more likely to be foraging for nectar and pollen.
How and Where Can You Find Giant resin bee at Different Life Stages
Larva Giant resin bee larvae reside in nesting cells created by adult giant resin bee. To find them, seek out nesting sites which may be in hollow stems, wood holes, or other cylindrical cavities. Handle the nesting material with care to avoid disturbance.
Pupal Giant resin bee pupae develop within their nesting cells where the larval stage took place. Locating the pupae involves identifying sealed nesting cells, which can often be found in man-made bee hotels or naturally occurring crevices. Avoid opening the cells, as this can harm the developing giant resin bee.
Adult Giant resin bee adults can be found by observing flowering plants, particularly those that are native to the region and known to attract bees. They may also be attracted to bee hotels. Approach with caution and minimize any disturbance to the foraging giant resin bee.
Are Giant resin bee harmful?
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The giant resin bee can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.
Are Giant resin bee harmful to humans?
In general, giant resin bee are not harmful to people, they are only interested in pollen and leaves. However, the giant resin bee like other bees, has a tail pin that can be used from the guard. In addition, giant resin bee has a developed and powerful jaw. So please don't mess with them, otherwise the giant resin bee may bite and sting you.
Harmful Effects of Giant resin bee
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Human Stinging
Does the Giant resin bee sting humans?
Giant resin bee lack a powerful sting and are not aggressive. They are solitary bees, and females have a mild sting, which is rarely used and only in defense. Males cannot sting. The likelihood of stinging humans is extremely low and typically occurs only if handled or threatened. Stings, if they occur, are not harmful and do not have significant implications for humans or the bees themselves.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring
Giant resin 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 feed its offspring, packing the grains into specialized structures on its body. During this process, giant resin bee inadvertently transfers pollen, facilitating the fertilization of plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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