COLLETIDAE Meaning and
Definition
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Colletidae is a family of bees within the order Hymenoptera, which includes around 2,000 species distributed worldwide. These bees are commonly known as plasterer bees or polyester bees due to their peculiar nesting behavior. Colletidae is characterized by several distinct features, including a high diversity of attractive colors, robust and hairy bodies, and antennae with specific modifications.
The nesting behavior of Colletidae is the most notable aspect of their biology. These bees construct nests using a unique material called cellophane, which is secreted from specialized glands found in their abdomens. The cellophane is used to construct partitions within the burrows, forming individual chambers for the larvae and food storage. This nest architecture helps protect the larvae from predators and maintain stable conditions for their development.
Colletidae bees are highly efficient pollinators, primarily visiting flowers of various plant species to collect pollen and nectar. As they exhibit a strong association with specific plants, they play a crucial role in the pollination of numerous plant species, particularly those with tubular-shaped flowers. This contribution to plant reproduction highlights the ecological importance of this bee family.
Overall, Colletidae represents a diverse and ecologically significant family of bees that exhibit fascinating nesting behaviors and play a vital role in plant pollination. Their unique nesting materials and specializations make them distinct from other bee families, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the natural world.
Etymology of COLLETIDAE
The word "Colletidae" comes from the genus name Colletes, which is a group of solitary bees belonging to the family Colletidae. The family name "Colletidae" itself is derived from the Greek word "kolletēs" (κολλητής), meaning "glue", referring to the female bees' habit of lining their nests with a waterproof cellophane-like secretion. This name alludes to the unique nesting behavior of these bees, where they construct underground tunnels and cells using this waxy substance.
