Brachyhesma trichopterota
| Brachyhesma trichopterota | |
|---|---|
| Male | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Hymenoptera |
| Family: | Colletidae |
| Genus: | Brachyhesma |
| Species: | B. trichopterota
|
| Binomial name | |
| Brachyhesma trichopterota | |
Brachyhesma trichopterota, or Brachyhesma (Microhesma) trichopterota, is a species of bee in the family Colletidae and the subfamily Euryglossinae. It is endemic to Australia. It was described in 1968 by Australian entomologist Elizabeth Exley.[1][2]
Etymology
The specific epithet trichopterota is an anatomical reference to the dense macrotrichia on the forewings.[1]
Description
Colouration is mainly yellow, with brown markings. Males: body length 3.0 mm, wing length 1.8 mm; females: body length 3.1 mm, wing length 2 mm.[1]
Distribution and habitat
The species occurs in tropical northern Queensland. The type locality is Mount Isa. It has also been recorded from Georgetown.[2][1]
Behaviour
The adults are flying mellivores. Flowering plants visited by the bees include Eucalyptus species.[2][1]
References
- ^ a b c d e f Exley, EM (1968). "Three new species of Brachyhesma (Apoidea: Colletidae)". Journal of the Australian Entomological Society. 7: 135–141 [137]. Retrieved 2026-03-15.
- ^ a b c d "Species Brachyhesma (Microhesma) trichopterota Exley, 1968". Australian Faunal Directory. Dept of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia. 2026. Retrieved 2026-03-15.