Coelioxys sayi

Taxonomy

Coelioxys sayi is a species of bee belonging to the genus Coelioxys within the family Megachilidae. The genus Coelioxys is known for its parasitic behavior, with species laying their eggs in the nests of other bees in the genus Megachile. 

Description

Nest Structure

Coelioxys are often referred to as cuckoo bees due to their nesting behavior, which closely resembles that of cuckoo birds. Instead of constructing their own nests, female Coelioxys lay their eggs in the nests of bees in the genus Megachile. Once inside the host nest, the larvae consume the host's provisions. Coelioxys sayi has been reported to parasitize the nests of Megachile mendica and Megachile brevis.