Dasypoda

Dasypoda is a genus of bees within the family Melittidae. These bees are commonly known as pantaloon bees or hairy-legged mining bees due to the distinctive, dense scopae (pollen-collecting hairs) on the hind legs of the females. This characteristic makes them easily identifiable in the field.

Dasypoda bees are generally solitary, meaning that individual females construct and provision their own nests. They typically nest in the ground, creating burrows with multiple cells for their offspring. These cells are provisioned with pollen and nectar, forming a food mass for the developing bee larvae.

The distribution of Dasypoda species is primarily in the Palaearctic region, including Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Different species within the genus may exhibit specific habitat preferences and floral associations.

The dense scopae on the hind legs of female Dasypoda bees are particularly adapted for collecting pollen from specific types of flowers. Some species are oligolectic, meaning they specialize in collecting pollen from a limited range of plant species, while others are more polylectic, gathering pollen from a wider variety of sources.

The conservation status of Dasypoda species varies depending on the region and specific threats to their populations. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change can all negatively impact these bees and the plants they pollinate. Further research is needed to fully understand the ecological roles and conservation needs of different Dasypoda species.