Nest structure and communal nesting in Euglossa (Glossura) annectans Dressler (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Euglossini)

Abstract

Three nests of Euglossa (Glossura) annectans Dressler, 1982 were obtained from trap nests at Serra do Japi, Jundiai, Sao Paulo State, Brazil. The bees nested in bamboo cane (one nest) and in wooden-boxes (two nests). SolitalY (two cases) and pleometrotic (one case) foundations were observed. Two nests were re-used once by two females working in each of them. Re-using females that shared the nests were of the same generation and each built, provisioned and oviposited in her own cells, characterizing a communal association. The brood development period was related to climatic conditions. Natural enemies included Anthrax oedipus oedipus Fabricius, 1805 (Bombyliidae), Coelioxys sp. (Megachilidae) and Meli/lobia sp. (Eulophidae).