Names and Taxonomy
- Common Names: Sunflower Chimney Bee
- Synonyms:
- Order: Hymenoptera (Wasps, Bees and Ants)
- Family: Apidae (Bees)
- Genus Information: 3 species in NV, 7 in CA, 30 in US
Diadasia enavata
Sunflower Chimney Bee
Introduction:
Diadasia enavata, also known as the sunflower chimney bee, is a species of bee found in North and Central America that specializes in pollinating plants of the Asteraceae family, particularly sunflowers. This shaggy, golden-haired bee is a key pollinator for species like Coreopsis tinctoria, the Ash Meadows Gumplant (Grindelia fraxino-pratensis) and is associated with sunflower patches.
Life Cycle: The female Diadasia bee lays eggs in individual cells within her underground nest, providing enough pollen and nectar to sustain the larva until it becomes an adult.
Size 0.5-0.6 inch (12-15 mm)
Sexual Dimorphism: false
Metamorphosis: complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult)
