Osmia cornifrons

Osmia cornifrons, commonly known as the Japanese horn-faced bee, is a species of mason bee native to Japan. It has been introduced to other countries, including the United States, for the purpose of crop pollination. Osmia cornifrons is a solitary bee, meaning that unlike honeybees or bumblebees, individuals do not live in colonies but rather each female mates, constructs her own nest, and provisions it with pollen and nectar for her offspring.

Description

Osmia cornifrons is a small bee, with females typically larger than males. The females have a distinctive horn-like projection on their face, which is the origin of their common name. Their body is predominantly metallic blue or green, with dense hairs on the thorax and a series of hair bands on the abdomen. Males are similar in appearance but lack the horn and are generally smaller.

Habitat and Distribution

Originally from Japan, Osmia cornifrons has been introduced to several other countries, including the United States, primarily for its pollination services in orchards. It prefers temperate climates and is commonly found in habitats that provide suitable nesting sites, such as hollow stems, wood cavities, and specially made nesting blocks.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Osmia cornifrons begins in spring when temperatures rise and the bees emerge from their nests. After mating, females search for suitable nesting sites where they lay their eggs. Each egg is laid in a separate cell within the nest, provisioned with a mixture of nectar and pollen. After laying eggs, the female seals the nest, and the adult bees do not survive the winter. The eggs hatch into larvae, which feed on the provisions left by the female, and then pupate to emerge as adults the following spring.

Pollination

Osmia cornifrons is an effective pollinator of several crops, notably fruit trees such as apples, pears, and cherries. Its activity in the early morning, even in cold or overcast weather, makes it particularly valuable for pollination. Unlike honeybees, Osmia cornifrons does not have a hive to return to, so it tends to move directly from flower to flower, resulting in more efficient pollination.

Conservation

While not currently listed as endangered, the conservation of Osmia cornifrons and other pollinators is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and food security. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change are significant threats to pollinator populations worldwide.

See Also

• Pollination
• Mason bee
• Bee conservation