African Fig Wasp vs Fringed Leafcutter Bee

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute African Fig Wasp Fringed Leafcutter Bee
Scientific Name Ceratosolen capensis Megachile fidelis
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Agaonidae Megachilidae
Size 1-3 mm 11-14 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Beaches & Coastal
Diet Nectar Feeders Pollen Feeders
Regions Southern Africa, East Africa Western North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

African Fig Wasp

A tiny wasp with an obligate mutualistic relationship with African fig trees. Females enter figs through a narrow opening to pollinate and lay eggs.

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Did You Know?

Each fig species has its own specific fig wasp pollinator, making them one of nature's most precise co-evolutionary partnerships.

Fringed Leafcutter Bee

A western North American leafcutter bee recognized by the dense fringe of golden hairs on its hind legs used for pollen transport. It nests in the ground, unusual for its genus.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most leafcutter bees that nest in cavities, it excavates burrows directly into sandy soil.