Behavior of the Alkali Bee, Nomia melanderi, within the Nest (Hymenoptera: Halictidae)

Behavior patterns of Nomia melanderi Cockerell in burrow and cell construction, provisioning, oviposition, and larval development were directly observed for the first time in 23 nests in 3 glass-sided chambers kept in a greenhouse. Nest-making behavior by this nomiine bee was generally similar to that of halictine bees. An unusual feature was the removal of dirt particles that had fallen on provisions in the vertical cells. Burrows, initiated in the evening by females 7-20 days old, approached their maximum depths within 12 hours. Cells were excavated, lined with soil, and lined with an oral secretion at night. They were usually provisioned the following morning, with oviposition usually occurring that afternoon. Larval development and cell structure were normal, but nests in the observation chambers were deeper than those in nature and had fewer cells.