Species richness and activity pattern of bees (Hymenoptera, Apidae) in the restinga area of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Barreirinhas, Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract

The Apidae community structure was studied in a vegetated area of coastal dunes in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Collections were performed monthly from August 2009 to July 2010. The collection methods included the use of entomological nets on flowers and Moerike traps. In total, 1211 individuals belonging to 59 species were collected. The pattern of abundance and richness was similar to those found in Maranhão and other coastal areas of northeastern Brazil. The bees were present throughout the year, with an increase in the number of individuals during the rainy season. Constant and dominant species included Trigona sp. gr. fulviventris, Apis mellifera, Plebeia alvarengai, Centris aenea, Xylocopa cearensis, and Centris caxiensis. Keywords: Annual activity, Apoidea, Bee diversity, Coastal region, Neotropical