Ctenocolletes tricolor

Ctenocolletes tricolor is a species of bee in the family Stenotritidae. It is endemic to Australia. It was described in 1983 by Australian entomologist Terry Houston.

Etymology

The specific epithet tricolor refers to the colours – orange, white and dark brown – of the pubescence.

Description

The body length of males is 18 mm; that of females is 19 mm.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in southern Western Australia. The holotype was collected 8 km south of Yellowdine. Flowering plants visited by the bees include Melaleuca, Wehlia and Grevillea species.

Behaviour

The adults are flying mellivores.