About Long-legged Oil Bee
An extraordinary South African bee whose front legs are nearly twice its body length, the longest of any bee relative to body size. It uses these to collect oils from long-spurred flowers.
Did You Know?
The coevolution between its leg length and Diascia spur length is one of the most famous examples of a pollination arms race.
How to Identify Long-legged Oil Bee
Long-legged Oil Bee (Rediviva longimanus) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Melittidae. Adults typically measure 12-15 mm.
Long-legged Oil Bee Habitat
Long-legged Oil Bee is found in heathland habitats, particularly across South Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Long-legged Oil Bee Diet and Feeding
Long-legged Oil Bee feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Long-legged Oil Bee Found?
Long-legged Oil Bee can be found in South Africa, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Long-legged Oil Bee can be found
Is Long-legged Oil Bee Dangerous?
Long-legged Oil Bee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Long-legged Oil Bee Role in Nature
Long-legged Oil Bee plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Long-legged Oil Bee
What does Long-legged Oil Bee look like?
The Long-legged Oil Bee typically measures 12-15 mm.
Where is Long-legged Oil Bee found?
The Long-legged Oil Bee is found in South Africa and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Long-legged Oil Bee eat?
The Long-legged Oil Bee feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Long-legged Oil Bee dangerous to humans?
The Long-legged Oil Bee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
Is Long-legged Oil Bee endangered?
The Long-legged Oil Bee is currently classified as Data Deficient by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Long-legged Oil Bee?
The coevolution between its leg length and Diascia spur length is one of the most famous examples of a pollination arms race.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Long-legged Oil Bee (Rediviva longimanus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/long-legged-oil-bee
MLA:
"Long-legged Oil Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/long-legged-oil-bee.