Which species are known or suspected hosts for B. flavidus infiltration?
Answer
*Bombus terricola* and *Bombus impatiens*
The social parasitic lifestyle of the female *Bombus flavidus* necessitates successful infiltration of the nests of specific host species. Known or suspected hosts cited for this cuckoo bumblebee include *Bombus terricola* and *Bombus impatiens*. The female *B. flavidus* must time her entry carefully, typically when the host colony is already established and has begun rearing its first true workers, allowing the parasite to leverage existing resources. This host specificity is a crucial aspect of the species' ecology, as the survival of the parasite lineage is completely dependent on the successful presence and activity of these other *Bombus* species within the ecosystem.
Related Questions
What is the current scientific name for the Yellowish Cuckoo Bumblebee?What designation preceded Bombus flavidus historically for this species?Which feature is absent in the female B. flavidus due to parasitism?Which Order groups Bombus flavidus with ants and wasps?What specialized reproductive strategy defines B. flavidus within the Bombus genus?The Family Apidae groups the Yellowish Cuckoo Bumblebee with which common insects?What regional status is documented for B. flavidus in New Jersey?Which entomologist was honored by the former name Bombus fernaldi?Which species are known or suspected hosts for B. flavidus infiltration?To which biological Kingdom does the Yellowish Cuckoo Bumblebee belong?