Violet carpenter bee
Xylocopa violacea
Xylocopa violacea, commonly known as the Violet Carpenter Bee, is a large, robust bee species that is part of the Apidae family. This fascinating insect is known for its metallic black body with vibrant shades of violet on its wings, making it quite stunning to observe in the natural habitats of the Comunidad Valenciana.
The Violet Carpenter Bee is notable for several reasons:
- Size: It is one of the largest bee species found in Europe, with a body length typically ranging from 20 to 25 millimeters.
- Coloration: Its body is predominantly black, but its wings exhibit a beautiful violet sheen, which can be observed when sunlight hits them at the right angle.
- Behavior: Unlike social bees, the Violet Carpenter Bee is solitary. Females are capable of boring into wood to create nests, hence the name "carpenter bee."
- Pollination: They play an essential role in pollinating various flowers, contributing to the biodiversity and flora diversity in the region.
- Habitat: This species is commonly found in gardens, forests, and anywhere there is an abundance of flowering plants and dead wood, which they use for nesting.
In the Comunidad Valenciana, this bee is a frequently seen pollinator and a cherished part of the local fauna, contributing significantly to the ecological health and beauty of the region's environments.