To which broader taxonomic family do the Yellow-faced Bees belong?
Answer
Colletidae
The *Hylaeus* genus, commonly known as Yellow-faced Bees, is classified within the family Colletidae. Members of the Colletidae family are sometimes referred to generally as plasterer bees. This family is recognized as ancient within the broader context of bee evolution. The defining evolutionary significance of this placement, particularly concerning *Hylaeus*, relates to their ancestral trait of carrying liquid pollen rather than dry pollen, which places them distinctly within the phylogenetic tree relative to more derived bee families.
Related Questions
How do *Hylaeus* bees transport pollen differently from more familiar bee species?What is the evolutionary lineage significance of *Hylaeus* being the only native bees in Hawaii?What process describes the rapid diversification of ancestral *Hylaeus* species across the Hawaiian Islands?To which broader taxonomic family do the Yellow-faced Bees belong?What is a consequence of the high specialization and endemism developed by Hawaiian *Hylaeus* species?What specific federally listed endangered *Hylaeus* species is highlighted as an example of vulnerability?What distinguishes the specialization strategy of the Hawaiian *Hylaeus* radiation compared to island gigantism seen in other groups?What is the local Hawaiian designation for the Yellow-faced Bees?What actionable, low-tech conservation measure directly supports the nesting survival of solitary *Hylaeus* specialists?What ancient pollen transport method do *Hylaeus* bees share with some of their closest relatives?