Wild bee pollination networks in northern New England

Abstract

Conserving and maintaining a diverse assemblage of wild bees is essential for a healthy and functioning ecosystem, as species are uniquely evolved to deliver specific plant–pollination requirements. Understanding the biology and ecology of bees in poorly studied regions is the first step towards conservation. Detailed surveys in New Hampshire reveal a broad diversity of 118 species of wild bees in different guilds and habitats including 17 bee species representing new state records. Network analyses reveal a complex community structure and relatively poorly connected plant–pollinator associations, thus species may be susceptible to disturbance. Phenological analyses document that at least one representative of five native bee families was present throughout the foraging season and both abundance and diversity were highest in June and July. This study provides important baseline information on bee abundance, diversity, phenology, and host plant associations necessary for future conservation efforts.