Nidificação da abelha Epanthidium tigrinum em ninhos manejados em remanescente de mata de tabuleiro

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the nesting behavior of the bee Epanthidium tigrinum (Schrottky, 1905) (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) in managed trap nests within a remnant of tabuleiro forest, in order to assess its potential for rational rearing. Artificial nests were installed in an experimental area of the Bee Sector at the Federal University of Ceará (UFC), in Fortaleza, Ceará, and were monitored regularly from January 2023 to January 2025. Data collected included the number and seasonality of nests, rates of cell closure and emergence, sex ratio, nest structure, and construction materials. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed. Results indicated that the species is multivoltine, with a nesting peak in August–September, and each female built between 1 and 4 nests. Emergence was recorded in 56.9% of brood cells, with a male-biased sex ratio (41.46% males). Average nest length was 5.94 ± 2.84 cm, and there was a positive correlation between average cell length and number of cells per nest. The main nesting material was dark-colored resin, often mixed with other substances. It is concluded that E. tigrinum shows promise for conservation-oriented management and pollination, provided that adequate resources (pollen, nectar, and resin) and floral planning are ensured.