Colletes

Colletes is a genus of solitary bees in the family Colletidae, commonly known as plasterer bees or cellophane bees. These bees are found worldwide, with a particularly high diversity in temperate regions.

Description: Colletes bees are generally small to medium in size, ranging from about 5 to 17 mm in length. They are typically dark-colored, often black or brown, with varying degrees of pale hairs on their bodies. A key characteristic of Colletes is their short, bilobed glossa (tongue), which is used to lap up nectar rather than probe deep flowers like many other bee species.

Nesting Habits: Colletes bees are solitary, meaning that each female constructs and provisions her own nest. They typically nest in burrows in the ground, although some species nest in pre-existing cavities or in decaying wood. The nests are lined with a unique, cellophane-like secretion produced by the Dufour's gland in the abdomen of the female. This secretion is waterproof and antifungal, protecting the developing larvae from desiccation and fungal growth. The 'cellophane' lining gives rise to the name "cellophane bees."

Diet and Pollination: Colletes bees are oligolectic, meaning they typically collect pollen from only a few specific plant species or genera. This specialization makes them important pollinators of those particular plants. The specific pollen preferences vary depending on the Colletes species.

Taxonomy: The genus Colletes is diverse and includes hundreds of species. The classification of Colletes species can be complex, and ongoing taxonomic research continues to refine our understanding of the relationships within the genus.

Conservation Status: The conservation status of many Colletes species is unknown. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change are potential threats to their populations. More research is needed to assess the conservation needs of these important pollinators.