Bumblebee

Mrs tittlemouse

Dehon et al 2019 Zookeys Fig2-D Bombus (Cullumanobombus) pristinus

Dehon et al 2019 Zookeys Fig1-C Calyptapis florissantensis

Bumblebee heuchera

Bombus.barbutellus.-.lindsey

Bumblebees (Bombus) are a group of large, hairy, social insects belonging to the family Apidae, under the order Hymenoptera. Known for their robust shape and black and yellow body hairs, often in bands, they are closely related to honey bees, stingless bees, and carpenter bees. Bumblebees are found primarily in higher altitudes or latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere, although they are also found in South America and New Zealand. They are vital pollinators in many ecosystems, contributing to the fertilization of many plants, which is crucial for food production.

Description

Bumblebees are distinguishable by their large, fuzzy bodies that range in size from about 14 to 34 mm (0.55 to 1.34 inches). They have aposematic (warning) coloration, often consisting of striking bands of color on their abdomens, which can vary greatly between species. Unlike honey bees, bumblebees can sting multiple times because their stingers are not barbed and do not get pulled out of their bodies.

Behavior

Bumblebees are social insects that form colonies with a single queen. The colonies are smaller than those of honey bees, typically hosting only a few hundred bees. Workers, males, and the queen all have specific roles within the colony. Workers gather nectar and pollen to feed the colony, males leave the nest and do not return once they reach adulthood and their primary role is to find a queen to mate with, and the queen is responsible for laying eggs.

Bumblebees are capable of buzz pollination, a technique that some plants require for pollination. The bee grabs onto a flower and vibrates its flight muscles without flapping its wings, causing pollen to be dislodged from the flower.

Habitat

Bumblebees prefer temperate climates and are often found in higher latitudes and altitudes. They are adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats including gardens, meadows, and forests. They nest in the ground, typically in abandoned rodent burrows, under piles of debris, or within dense grass clumps.

Conservation

Many bumblebee species are facing threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and the spread of diseases from domesticated bees. Some species have experienced significant declines in numbers, leading to conservation efforts aimed at protecting bumblebee habitats and reducing pesticide usage.

Cultural Significance

Bumblebees have been featured in folklore and mythology. They are often seen as symbols of industriousness and loyalty. In modern times, they are also recognized for their crucial role in pollinating crops and wild plants.