Wednesday, June 15, 2016

A new plasterer bee: Goniocolletes wanni

Image from original publication
Plasterer bees or polyester bees smooth the walls of their nest cells with secretions applied through their mouthparts. These secretions dry into a cellophane-like lining. Over 50% of all bee species living in Australia belong to this family (Colletidae).

Not surprisingly the new species was found in Southern Australia. The species is named after Stan Wann, the grandfather of the co-collector, Beth Tully. Stan Wann grew up in the bush on the north coast of New South Wales, and had a profound knowledge of the birds and trees in the area.

For the experts: Goniocolletes comatus Maynard, 2013 is redescribed. G. wanni sp. n. and the male of Trichocolletes luteorufus Batley & Houston, 2012 are described.

No comments:

Post a Comment