Hawaiian Assimulans Yellow-faced Bee vs Neon Cuckoo Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Hawaiian Assimulans Yellow-faced Bee | Neon Cuckoo Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hylaeus assimulans | Thyreus nitidulus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Colletidae | Apidae |
| Size | 6-8 mm | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Pollen Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (Hawaii) | Australia |
| Conservation | Endangered | Not Evaluated |
Hawaiian Assimulans Yellow-faced Bee
A rare endemic bee from the Hawaiian Islands, once found on several islands but now severely reduced in range. It nests in the stems of native plants and abandoned beetle holes. Habitat loss and invasive species have drastically reduced its populations.
Did You Know?
This bee is one of seven Hawaiian yellow-faced bee species federally listed as endangered, highlighting the perilous state of Hawaiian native pollinators.
Neon Cuckoo Bee
A stunning blue-spotted cleptoparasite that lays eggs in the nests of blue-banded bees. The cuckoo larva hatches first and consumes the host's pollen provisions.
Did You Know?
Their brilliant blue spots are formed by dense patches of iridescent hairs that mimic the coloring of their host bees.