Efeito das variações espaciais e da sazonalidade na nidificação, fenologia e mortalidade de Centris tarsata (Apide, Centridini) no bioma Cerrado

Abstract

This study investigated the nesting biology of Centris tarsata, a solitary bee recognized for its importance in pollinating plants in the Brazilian Cerrado and in agricultural areas, such as acerola orchards. The main objective was to understand how the species adjusts its reproductive phenology in response to seasonal and environmental variations. The study was conducted across 16 areas in the Triângulo Mineiro region of Minas Gerais, using trap nests (TN) to attract the nesting females. These TNs were installed in both passion fruit crops (n=8) and preserved Cerrado areas (n=8), allowing for a comparative analysis between these environments. The results indicate that C. tarsata is a bivoltine species and females preferentially nest during the dry season. It was also observed that the production of brood cells varies significantly across the studied areas but does not differ between passion fruit crops and preserved Cerrado areas. the immature mortality due to natural enemies or unknown causes was positively correlated with a higher abundance of nests. Based on the results obtained, it can be inferred that the observed variations are likely related to landscape structure in the areas where the trap nests were installed. Thus, it is essential to emphasize that preserving natural areas around crops positively contributes to pollinator conservation and agricultural production.