Ecology and Nesting Behavior of Bombus atratus Franklin in Andean Highlands (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

摘要: The neotropical bumble bee Bombus (Fervidobombus) atratus Franklin is widely dis- tributed in South America ranging from tropical and subtropical lowlands to high altitudes the Andes. Most of its biology known studies conducted Brazilian lowland forests almost nothing other areas, especially at altitudes. Here we provide data on nest architecture, brood development, worker behavior, seasonal cycle associated organ- isms seven colonies B. observed above 2000 m altitude Colombia Ecuador. Then, compare them with those Brazil. All found were located ground, disturbed areas. nests either lacked a defined entrance or had single entrance; five entrances, one more active than others. Nests 1 8 queens up 80 workers indicating monogynous polygynous cycles as reported lowlands. initially an involucrum covering but even- tually developed irregular wax mixed cardboard carcasses their beetles (Antherophagus sp., Cryptophagidae). Bees also built pollen pockets attached larval clusters for feeding larvae. average developmental time egg adult (29.6 days) percentage cells two (63.6%) significantly greater previously reported. maximum pocket diameter was smaller, about half size, diameters colonies. ecological siwcance such reduction size still unclear could explain higher frequency our colony. maintained internal temperature 12°C warmer external environmental temperature. Several constantly scraping cut- ting litter top nests. Previously this behavior only been transuersalis (Oliver), closely related Amazonian species. As lowlands, seem be year-round. beetle Antherophagus sp. observed. They are probably scavengers, cer- tainly role within Resumen.-El abejorro estA ampliamente distribuido en Sur AmQica, encontrAndose desde las tierras bajas tropicales y subtropicales hasta grandes 10s Gran parte de su biologia es conocida estudios realizados brasileras casi nada se conoce otras Areas, especialmente alturas. Aqui proporcionamos datos sobre la arquitectura nidos, ciclo desarrollo, comportamiento obreras, estacional organismos asociados siete colonias observadas mAs altura Luego, nuestros son comparados con Brasil. Todas encontradas estaban el suelo, Areas perturbadas. La mayoria nidos carecian una entrada definida o presentaban sola entrada; un solo nido tenia 5 entradas, cuales era activa que otras. Los tenian ocho reinas