How does the morphology of *Hylaeus* contrast with the common European honeybee (*Apis mellifera*)?
Answer
*Hylaeus* lacks the dense, fuzzy coat designed to carry pollen on its hind legs
The contrast between *Hylaeus* and the European honeybee, *Apis mellifera*, highlights different evolutionary strategies for pollination. *Apis mellifera* is defined by its dense, fuzzy coat, specifically adapted to carry significant loads of pollen externally on specialized structures, known as scopa, located on the hind legs. In stark opposition, the yellow-faced bee is structurally adapted for rapid, discreet foraging by lacking this dense external hair structure entirely. This absence of a fuzzy coat means *Hylaeus* cannot rely on external transport mechanisms like the honeybee.
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