A social parasitic bumblebee species native to European grassland and agricultural landscapes, characterized by its unique reproductive strategy of invading and exploiting host bumblebee nests.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Open meadows, agricultural fields, flower-rich grasslands across Europe, preferring temperate regions with diverse flowering plant communities
Ecological Role
Critical pollinator and ecological indicator species, playing a significant role in maintaining plant biodiversity through parasitic reproductive interactions with host bumblebee colonies
Morphology
SKIN COATPredominantly black coloration with variable yellow or orange markings
LIMBS WINGSTwo pairs of membranous wings, strong legs adapted for flight and nest invasion
HEAD SENSORYWell-developed compound eyes, sensitive antennae for chemical and spatial navigation
BODY STRUCTUREMedium-sized bumblebee, approximately 14-16 mm in length, with robust body covered in dense setae
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Emanuel Kern
