Anthophora crinipes, F, Face, Greece, Aegean Islands
One of the few species in the genus Anthophora with a strong pollen preference. Its almost solely found on Boraginaceae, especially Alkanna and Anchusa. It also a species known to nest in large numbers in vertical cliffs, old adobe houses and even inside caves with adobe walls.This one was collected by Jelle Devalez in Greece as part of a study to look at the many species of bees that inhabit the Aegean Islands. Anthophoras are particularly prone to having long tongues, the better to investigate deep within flowers. Photo by Brooke Alexander.
The butterfly obtains
But little sympathy,
Though favorably mentioned
In Entomology.
Because he travels freely
And wears a proper coat,
The circumspect are certain
The he is dissolute.
Had he the homely scutcheon of modest Industry,
T were fitter certifying for Immortality.
- Emily Dickinson. Original public domain image from Flickr