Armed Nomad Bee
Nomada armata
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) RUIZ Jean Marc, all rights reserved, uploaded by RUIZ Jean Marc
Overview
The Armed Nomad Bee (Nomada armata) is a cuckoo bee species characterized by its distinctive wasp-like appearance with yellow and black markings and relatively hairless body. As a kleptoparasite, it does not collect pollen itself but instead lays its eggs in the nests of solitary mining bees, where its larvae consume the host's provisions.
The Armed Nomad Bee faces significant threats from habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and urbanization, which reduces availability of both host bee populations and suitable nesting sites. Climate change and pesticide use further compound these pressures, disrupting the delicate ecological relationships this cuckoo bee depends on for survival.
Habitat
Open grasslands, heathlands, coastal dunes, and sandy areas with sparse vegetation where host mining bees (Andrena species) construct their ground nests. Also found in woodland edges, quarries, and other disturbed sandy soils in temperate regions.
Other threatened species in Apidae
Threatened in Albania
Frequently asked questions
Why is Armed Nomad Bee classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Armed Nomad Bee live?
What are the main threats to Armed Nomad Bee?
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