First Observations on Nesting and Immatures of the Bee Genus Ancyla (Apoidea: Apidae: Apinae: Ancylaini)
Abstract
Herein we present information on the nest architecture and nesting biology primarily of Ancyla asiatica Friese and, to a lesser extent, of A. anatolica Warncke, both found near Adana, Turkey. These two ground-nesting species visit Apiaceae for mating and larval provisions, with A. asiatica going to Daucus carota and A. anatolica, to Eryngium.
The cocoon of A. asiatica is described in detail as are the mature oocytes of both species and the pre- and postdefecating larvae of A. asiatica. Each site was attacked by a separate, unnamed cleptoparasitic species of Ammobates (Nomadinae).
The relationships of the Ancylaini to other apine tribes are discussed based on their mature larvae, and a revised tribal key to mature larvae of nonparasitic, noncorbiculate Apinae is presented.