Anthophora

Anthophora is a genus of bees commonly known as digger bees. They belong to the family Apidae, which also includes bumblebees and honeybees. Anthophora bees are solitary, meaning each female builds and provisions her own nest. They are important pollinators, visiting a wide variety of flowers to collect nectar and pollen.

These bees are characterized by their robust bodies, often covered in dense hair. Their coloration can vary, with many species exhibiting shades of black, brown, and yellow or orange markings. Anthophora bees are typically found in open habitats such as meadows, fields, and gardens where suitable nesting sites are available.

Nesting behavior in Anthophora varies, but many species excavate burrows in the ground, particularly in well-drained soil. The female bee digs a tunnel and creates a series of cells within it, each provisioned with a mixture of pollen and nectar. She then lays an egg in each cell before sealing it. The larvae develop within these cells, feeding on the stored provisions.

The life cycle of Anthophora bees is typically annual. Adults emerge in the spring or summer, mate, and the females then begin the process of nest construction. The length of the larval and pupal stages can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions. Many species overwinter as pupae or adults within their nests. Anthophora bees are generally docile and are not aggressive unless directly provoked. Their pollination services are crucial for the reproduction of many wild plants and agricultural crops.