Allodapini

Allodapini is a tribe of carpenter bees found in the Old World, primarily in Africa and Asia. These bees are known for their diverse morphology and social behaviors, ranging from solitary to highly eusocial. They are generally medium-sized bees, often with metallic coloration, and are important pollinators for a variety of flowering plants.

The tribe is divided into several genera, with Allodape being the most well-known. Allodapines are characterized by their relatively short, stout bodies and often hairy thoraxes. Their nesting habits vary, with some species building nests in pre-existing cavities like hollow stems or abandoned beetle burrows, while others excavate their own. The social structure can be simple, with a single female provisioning a nest, or more complex, involving cooperative brood care by multiple individuals.

Ecologically, Allodapini plays a significant role in their respective ecosystems. They are generalist pollinators, visiting a wide array of flowers to collect nectar and pollen. Their social behavior, particularly in more eusocial species, can lead to increased pollination efficiency due to coordinated foraging efforts. The diversity within the Allodapini tribe reflects a fascinating evolutionary trajectory in bee sociality and adaptation to various floral resources.