A new species of the bee genus Paratetrapedia from northeastern Brazil mimic of the stingless bee Camargoia nordestina (Apidae, Tapinotaspidini)

Abstract

The northeastern region in Brazil comprises a complex of endemic areas mostly known for the species inhabiting the dry Caatinga and wet Atlantic forests. Here, we describe the new bee species Paratetrapedia nordestina sp. nov. (Tapinotaspidini), which occurs in enclaves of semi-deciduous forests in the western limits of Ceará and in eastern Piaui state, in northeastern Brazil. A key to both males and females of the lineata group in Paratetrapedia, including the new species, is provided. We also provide a discussion about its mimetic partner, map of distribution, and main illustrations of the two involved species.

Keywords:
Endemism; Mimicry; Oil-bees; Semideciduous forests; Taxonomy