Taxonomic Studies on the Megachilidae of North-Western India

Book Details

• Author: R.K. Gupta

• Publisher: Scientific Publishers

• Language: English

• Edition: 1st Edition

• Year of Publication: 1999

• ISBN: 9788172332044

• Pages: 291

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 7.25 x 9.50 inches

• Weight: 750 grams

About the Book
This research-oriented publication presents an in-depth exploration of the Megachilidae family of bees, which constitute approximately 40% of the bee fauna in India. With around 650 species of bees across 10 families found in the Indian region, bees play a crucial role in pollinating more than 3,000 species of Angiosperms, making them essential for ecological balance and agricultural productivity.

The book focuses specifically on 166 species of Megachilidae collected from 110 locations in north-western India. These species are classified within 36 subgenera and 26 genera, and each species description is accompanied by a detailed collection and flower record. This comprehensive taxonomic work provides a detailed identification key and illustrative figures, which are invaluable tools for anyone working in the fields of taxonomy, bee biology, and pollination ecology.

R.K. Gupta, who has been studying non-apis bee taxonomy since 1979, has re-categorized the species based on the latest taxonomic frameworks. This publication is considered a significant contribution to the study of bee biodiversity and will be particularly useful to taxonomists, bee biologists, and anyone involved in pollination research.

Key Features:

• In-depth Species Descriptions: Includes detailed descriptions of 166 species of Megachilidae bees, with taxonomic information.

• Comprehensive Identification Key: A key to aid in the identification of species, supported by figures and collection records.

• Ecological Relevance: Highlights the role of these bees in pollination, particularly of angiosperm plants.

• Research Contribution: Builds on the historical work of British India’s fauna (1897), updating it with recent taxonomic advancements.

This book is an essential resource for researchers, taxonomists, entomologists, and ecologists interested in bee biodiversity, pollination biology, and the taxonomy of non-apis bees.