Management of Centris analis (Hymenoptera: Apidae): Investigating the Ideal Dimensions of Trap Nests for Use in Crop Pollination.

Centris analis (Fabricius, 1804) is a solitary, cavity-nesting bee that is often recorded in studies through the use of trap nests. This species is considered to be a good candidate as a manageable pollinator for some orchards. However, further studies are still needed to optimize its rational rearing. This study sought to analyze female preference for different lengths and diameters of trap nests, as well as the effects of nest dimensions on the number of constructed cells, mortality rates, parasitism rates, and sex ratio. We used compact trap nests comprised of tubes with internal diameters ranging from 0.6 to 0.8 cm, and lengths ranging from 8 to 12 cm. The results showed that females preferred the narrowest (0.6 and 0.7 cm) and two of the longest cavities (10 and 12 cm). The greatest number of cells built was observed in the most used lengths. The lengths that were tested did not affect the mortality or parasitism rates or the sex ratio. Based on our findings concerning the dimensions examined, we recommend using the narrowest and longest cavities. The combined analyses of the tested parameters (diameter and length) demonstrated new data that can help improve the rearing and maintenance techniques applied to C. analis populations.