Corymbia calophylla (Marri) (K. D. Hill & L. A. S. Johnson) (Myrtaceae) is a major resource for native bees in the southwest western Australian biodiversity hotspot

Abstract

Context A theoretical paradigm proposes that certain species can serve as ‘keystone species’ or ‘magnets’, being particularly important for biodiversity. Aims We present evidence that in the context of supporting Indigenous native bees, this is indeed the case for the tree Corymbia calophylla (Marri), a Myrtaceae endemic to southwest Western Australia. Methods To assess the role of C. calophylla as a resource for native bees, we collated the number of species recorded from surveys across 16 sites, and specimens lodged in the WA Museum. Its capacity to support wild bees was assessed from abundance of bees visiting this species (total and relative to other plants visited) from 24 sites. Key results Corymbia calophylla was visited by 81 species of native bees, and is often the main, or only, plant species visited. It blooms at a crucial time when most species have finished flowering at the end of summer. Conclusions We argue that C. calophylla represents a crucial landscape resource for native bees. Implications Protection and management of C. calophylla is likely to be important for preservation of native bee biodiversity.