Bumblebee Biodiversity in Europe's Mountain Ranges
From the Alps to the Pyrenees: Unique Bumblebees in Disparate Habitats
Bumblebees, known for their ecological significance and distinctive appearances, exhibit fascinating diversity across Europe's mountain ranges. Their varied adaptations to different habitats have resulted in the evolution of distinct species, each occupying specific niches in these rugged landscapes.
Dark-winged Bumblebee: A Smoky Sojourner in the Alps
The dark-winged bumblebee (Bombus argillaceus) makes its home in the south and southeastern Alps. Its smoky, dark wings and distinct appearance set it apart from other bumblebees. This species prefers alpine meadows and forest edges, where it forages for nectar and pollen.
Bombus mucidus: A Mountain Specialist
Restricted to the Sierra Cantabrica, Pyrenees, and western Alps, Bombus mucidus is a mountain specialist. Its distribution is confined to these ranges, where it inhabits high-altitude meadows and rocky habitats. This bumblebee species is adapted to the harsh conditions of its alpine home.
Bombus alpinus: A Disjoint Distribution in Fennoscandia
The bumblebee Bombus alpinus has a fragmented distribution in Fennoscandia, primarily found in the northernmost regions. Its distribution is influenced by glacial history, which resulted in the species becoming isolated in its current range. This bumblebee inhabits alpine meadows and tundra environments.
Bombus argillaceus: Megabombus in Southern Europe
Bombus argillaceus is a bumblebee species belonging to the Megabombus subgenus. Its distribution extends from southern and southeastern Europe, including the Alps. This species is known for its large size and distinctive markings. It nests in underground burrows and prefers open habitats such as meadows and pastures.
The diversity of bumblebees in Europe's mountain ranges underscores the importance of these ecosystems for biodiversity conservation. These unique species play crucial roles in pollination and contribute to the overall ecological health of these fragile habitats.
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