| Full text | |
| Author(s): |
Cordeiro, Guaraci Duran
[1]
;
Taniguchi, Mariana
[1]
;
Wenzel Flechtmann, Carlos Holger
[2]
;
Alves-dos-Santos, Isabel
[3]
Total Authors: 4
|
| Affiliation: | [1] Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Filosofia Ciencias & Letras Ribeirao Preto, Dept Biol, BR-14040901 Ribeirao Preto, SP - Brazil
[2] Univ Sao Paulo, ESALQ, Dept Entomol Fitopatol & Zool Agr, BR-13418900 Piracicaba, SP - Brazil
[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Biociencias, Dept Ecol, Lab Abelhas, BR-05508900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 3
|
| Document type: | Journal article |
| Source: | Apidologie; v. 42, n. 2, p. 128-139, MAR 2011. |
| Web of Science Citations: | 6 |
| Abstract | |
Solitary bees of the genus Tetrapedia have a specific association with mites of the genus Roubikia (Chaetodactylidae). These mites are frequently found attached to active Tetrapedia bees. We quantified the number of mites on individuals of Tetrapedia diversipes Klug and examined the interaction between these species. Nests of T. diversipes were obtained from trap-nests placed in four localities in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The study lasted from March 2007 to February 2009. Out of a total of 650 nests with emergences, 118 were infested with mites (Roubikia sp.). From these nests, 176 individuals of T. diversipes emerged with mites on their bodies. Additionally, six individuals of Coelioxoides waltheriae, the specific kleptoparasitic bee to T. diversipes, emerged. Mites were attached mainly to the mesosoma. All nests infected with mites did not presented mortality of the immature. The mortality rate of nests was inversely related to the level of mite infestation, suggesting a mutualistic interaction in which mites may remove fungi from the nests, while the bees would provide the mites with transport, dispersal, and shelter. (AU) | |
| FAPESP's process: | 04/15801-0 - Biodiversity and sustainable use of pollinators, with emphasis on Meliponini bees |
| Grantee: | Vera Lucia Imperatriz-Fonseca |
| Support Opportunities: | BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Thematic Grants |