Andrena humilis
This record describes Andrena humilis (species). Recorded family: Andrenidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 10 to 12 mm. This species of solitary bee has a rather gingery, slightly hairy appearance. Most solitary bees and wasps are difficult to identify, and can rarely be identified from photos taken in the field. All red-rated records should include a photo, or set of photos, showing the key characters, which may require the specimen. Please include a face shot, side, top and wings. Note whether male or female, explain how the specimen met the key characters and the key used. We will accept records identified by a recognised local or national expert, or that have been identified via the BWARS’ Facebook noting the name of the person/organisation identifying the record (e.g. ‘Stuart Roberts, BWARS Facebook’). It occurs in a variety of sandy and disturbed situations such as hard, well-trodden paths and sandy banks. There is believed to be a close association with yellow composites (Asteraceae). Found mostly in England and Wales where it is often local and infrequent, frequently favouring sandy coastal locations. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Andrenidae
- Genus
- Andrena
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It occurs in a variety of sandy and disturbed situations such as hard, well-trodden paths and sandy banks.
Seasonal Activity
Usually seen in May and June.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
There is believed to be a close association with yellow composites (Asteraceae).
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found mostly in England and Wales where it is often local and infrequent, frequently favouring sandy coastal locations.
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Andrena humilis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hymenoptera includes over 150,000 described species of ants, bees, wasps, and sawflies. Earth harbors approximately 20 quadrillion (20×10^15) ants, with a combined biomass of ~12 megatons of dry carbon - exceeding the combined biomass of all wild birds and mammals (PNAS, 2022).
Ecological role of the group
About 35% of the world's food crops depend on animal pollinators. The chocolate industry, valued at over $100 billion, depends on pollinating flies and midges. Ants are the dominant soil engineers in most terrestrial ecosystems, turning more soil than earthworms in many habitats.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Pollinators contribute $235-577 billion worth of annual global food production (FAO). In the U.S., bee pollination alone benefits crops valued at $18 billion annually, and honey bees are responsible for $5.4 billion in agricultural productivity. Between April 2023-2024, 55.1% of managed honey bee colonies were lost. The U.S. bee population dropped from 5 million to 2.5 million.
Recorded sources for this group: FAO, USDA, EPA, PNAS (2022), US Fish & Wildlife Service. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Andrena humilis
What is Andrena humilis?
Andrena humilis is a species in the family Andrenidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
How big is Andrena humilis?
10 to 12 mm. This species of solitary bee has a rather gingery, slightly hairy appearance.
Where is Andrena humilis found?
Habitat: It occurs in a variety of sandy and disturbed situations such as hard, well-trodden paths and sandy banks.
When is Andrena humilis active?
Andrena humilis: seasonal activity - Usually seen in May and June..
What is the life cycle of a Andrena humilis?
There is believed to be a close association with yellow composites (Asteraceae).