ELF (Extremely Low Frequency) Communications System Ecological Monitoring Program. Biological Studies on Pollinating Insects: Megachilid Bees,
Abstract
Some 40 species of megachilid bees, representing eight genera, in complexes which are indigenous to North America are known to occur in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Each of these species is restricted in their ecological niche requirements for nesting sites; plants from which they obtain pollen to be used as provisions for growth and development of the larval stage; flowering plants from which nectar is extracted for subsistence of the adult or as admixtures with pollen; plant or mineral materials for construction of the nest; innate behavioral differences in securing the above materials and method for storing and/or manipulation at the nest site; a complement of predators and parasites; and an annual phenological sequence which is generally coincident with flowering activity of the plants to which they are restricted. Current research efforts aimed at integrating the various facets of megachilid biology are underway. These include an assessment of plant species known to be of use to the bees which are indigenous to the study area, the species complex of the megachilids of the area, and a literature survey on the biology of the species of bees of the area and preparation of such available data for computerization and later direct comparison with field data obtained in this current project.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADP001280
Entities
People
- Roland L. Fischer
Organizations
- Michigan State University