Xylocopa sonorina

Xylocopa sonorina, commonly known as the Pacific carpenter bee, is a species of carpenter bee native to Southeast Asia, extending its range to some Pacific Islands, including Hawaii. This species is notable for its significant role in pollination and its distinctive nesting behavior. Xylocopa sonorina is a large, robust bee, characterized by its shiny black body and wings that may exhibit a blue or greenish sheen in certain light conditions.

Description

Xylocopa sonorina exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females typically larger than males. Females possess a predominantly black coloration with sparse hairs, while males may have areas of yellow or white hairs on their faces and sides of their abdomens. Adults can range from 20 to 25 mm in length. Their large mandibles are adapted for excavating wood, where they create tunnels to lay their eggs and nurture their offspring.

Distribution and Habitat

Originally from Southeast Asia, Xylocopa sonorina has expanded its range to various Pacific Islands, including Hawaii, where it has been present since the late 19th century. It prefers tropical and subtropical climates and is commonly found in gardens, forests, and areas where suitable nesting materials, such as dead wood and bamboo, are abundant.

Behavior

Xylocopa sonorina is a solitary bee, with females constructing and provisioning nests independently. Nests are typically created in dead wood or bamboo, where the female excavates a series of tunnels using her strong mandibles. Each tunnel is provisioned with a mixture of pollen and nectar, on which she lays an egg before sealing it off with a chewed wood pulp plug. This species exhibits a unique behavior known as "nectar robbing," where it bypasses the normal method of pollination by cutting into the base of a flower to access its nectar, potentially affecting the pollination success of certain plant species.

Ecological Role

As a pollinator, Xylocopa sonorina plays a crucial role in the ecosystems it inhabits. Despite its nectar-robbing behavior, it contributes to the pollination of a wide variety of plants, including both native and introduced species. Its preference for constructing nests in dead wood also aids in the decomposition process, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Conservation Status

Currently, there is no specific conservation status for Xylocopa sonorina. However, like many pollinators, it faces threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Conservation efforts aimed at preserving natural habitats and promoting pollinator-friendly practices are essential for ensuring the survival of this species and the ecological services it provides.

See Also

• Pollination
• Carpenter bee
• Bee conservation