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Minnesota Biodiversity Atlas

Bell Museum

Authors: Dylan Nguyen and Adam Hartman
Less Details
Locality: University of Minneosta Bee Lab
Abstract:

This checklist was complied by students in the Fall 2018 offering of PMB4321: Minnesota Flora under the supervision of Professor George Weiblen.  The original checklist was provided by Angela Koebler of the College of Biological Sciences Conservatory. Information about the larval host plant preferences of various insect pollinators and the foraging preferences of adult pollinators is provided.


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Families: 20
Genera: 44
Species: 49
Total Taxa (details): 51
Allium cernuum Roth - nodding wild onion
The nectar and pollen of the nodding flowers attract primarily bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, Anthophorine bees (Anthophora spp.), and Halictid bees (Lasioglossum spp.). Insects that feed destructively on the foliage, bulbs, and other parts of Nodding Onion and other onion species (Allium spp.) include the Onion Plant Bug (Lindbergocapsus allii) and a similar plant bug (Lindbergocapsus ainsliei), larvae of the False Japanese Beetle (Strigoderma arbicola), larvae of the Onion Maggot (Delia antiqua), larvae of the Black Onion fly (Tritoxa flava), larvae of the Onion Bulb Fly (Eumerus strigatus), and Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci); special concern, source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/nod_onionx.htm
source: https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/shrub/lead-plant
The nectar and pollen of the flowers undoubtedly attract bees and other insects. Among the bees, Osmia spp. (mason Bees) and Andrena spp. (Andrenid Bees) are common visitors of spring-blooming shrubs in the Rose family. The caterpillars of the butterfly Satyrium titus (Coral Hairstreak), the moth Catocala praeclara (Praeclara Underwing), and the moth Lomographa semiclarata (Bluish Spring Moth) feed on the foliage of Photinia spp. (Chokeberries)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/bl_chokeberry.htm
The flowers of Tall Green Milkweed are cross-pollinated primarily by long-tongued bees and wasps. Bee visitors include honeybees, bumblebees, and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). To a lesser extent, the flowers also attract small butterflies and day-flying moths (e.g., Cisseps fulvicollis). These insects obtain nectar from the flowers. Milkweeds attract a special group of insects that are oligophagous on various parts of these plants. These insect feeders include caterpillars of the butterfly Danaus plexippus (Monarch) and caterpillars of the moths Cycnia inopinatus (Unexpected Cycnia), Cycnia tenera (Delicate Cycnia), and Euchaetes egle (Milkweed Tiger Moth). The larvae of some long-horned beetles bore through the stems and roots of milkweeds, specifically: Tetraopes tetrophthalmus (Red Milkweed Beetle), Tetraopes femoratus (Large Red Milkweed Beetle), and Tetraopes quinquemaculatus. When the follicles of milkweeds are present, the seeds are eaten by Lygaeus kalmii (Small Milkweed Bug) and Oncopeltus fasciatus (Large Milkweed Bug). Occasionally, aphids are found on the upper stems and leaf undersides; these species include Aphis asclepiadis, Myzocallis asclepiadis, Myzocallis punctatus, and Aphis nerii (Introduced Milkweed Aphid).;threatened, source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/tg_milkweed.htm
Asclepias incarnata L. - swamp milkweed
Swamp milkweed attracts a variety of butterflies, especially the monarch butterfly. Besides feeding on the nectar, the monarch butterfly only lays it eggs on milkweeds. In addition to monarch butterflies, insects that are specialized to feed on milkweed include seed bugs (Lygaeus kalmii, Oncopeltus spp.), longhorn beetles (Tetraopes spp.) that feed on foliage and roots, stem weevils (Rhyssomatus lineaticollis), and the oleander aphid (Aphis nerii)., source: https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/asclepias_incarnata.shtml, source: https://www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Milkweeds-of-Central-US_plus-vendors_XercesSociety.pdf
Asclepias tuberosa L. - butterfly milkweed
This milkweed attracts bumblebees, monarchs, eastern tiger swallowtails, fritillaries, hairstreaks, honeybees, painted ladies, pipevine swallowtails, and more., source: https://monarchbutterflygarden.net/milkweed-plant-seed-resources/asclepias-tuberosa-butterfly-weed/
Wild blue indigo provides nectar to a number of butterflies as well as other pollinators. Depending on location and availability of competing food plants (most notably crown vetch and alfalfa), the following caterpillars may use blue wild indigo for food: Clouded Sulphur: Caterpillars eat leaves of many plants in the pea family. Orange Sulphur: Caterpillars eat the leaves of many plants in the pea family. Frosted Elfin: Caterpillars eat flowers and young seedpods. Eastern Tailed-Blue: Caterpillar eggs are laid on flower buds and the caterpillars then eat the bud, flowers, and seeds. Hoary Edge Skipper: Individual eggs are laid in flower buds. Caterpillars eat flowers and seedpods. Wild Indigo Duskywing: A widespread butterfly that is fairly common in it's range., source: http://www.nababutterfly.com/wild_blue_inidigo.html
Betula nigra L. - river birch
Many kinds of insects feed on various parts of River Birch, especially the caterpillars of many moths. Other insect feeders include the caterpillars of the butterfly Nymphalis antiopa (Mourning Cloak), the larvae of sawflies, the grubs of wood-boring beetles, leaf beetles, plant bugs, shield bugs, leafhoppers, aphids, and others., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/river_birch.htm
Harebells are pollinated by hummingbirds and bees (specifically leafcutter, digger, green sweat and carpenter bees), and also attract various fly species., source: http://www.prairiepollination.ca/plante-plant/campanule_a_feuilles_rondes-harebell/, source: http://www.restoringthelandscape.com/2013/01/harebell-campanula-rotundifolia.html
There is little information about floral-faunal relationships for Hemp. The wind-pollinated flowers aren't thought to attract many insect pollinators but, in fact, the 'male' plants are teaming with pollen-collecting bees when the male flowers release copious amounts of pale yellow pollen in season., source: George Weiblen (personal observation) & http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/hemp.htm
Long-tongued bees are responsible for pollination of the flowers, which includes honeybees, bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). Two species of bees, Anthophora walshii and Svastra atripes atripes, are oligoleges of Partridge Pea. Sometimes leaf-cutting bees cut off portions of the petals for their brood chambers. The petiolar nectaries attract a completely different assortment of insects, including: Halictid bees, wasps, flies, and ants (Robertson, 1929). Unusual visitors to the nectaries are velvet ants (Mutillidae). The caterpillars of several sulfur butterflies feed on the foliage of this plant, including Eurema lisa (Little Sulfur), Eurema nicippe (Sleepy Orange), and Phoebis sennae cubule (Cloudless Sulfur); see Opler & Krizek (1984). Other insects that feed on Partridge Pea include Cerotoma trifurcata (Bean Leaf Beetle) and Sennius cruentatus (Partridge Pea Seed Beetle); see Clark et al. (2004) and Vestal (1913)., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/part_peax.htm
Coreopsis lanceolata L. - sand coreopsis
The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract many kinds of insects, including long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, skippers, day-flying moths, and beetles. A long-tongued bee, (Melissodes coreopsis) is an oligolege (specialist pollinator) of Coreopsis spp. Some insects feed destructively on the plant juices, flowerheads, and other parts of Sand Coreopsis and other Coreopsis spp. These species include the Ragweed Leaf Beetle (Calligrapha bidenticola) and Coreopsis Leaf Beetle (Calligrapha californica coreopsivora), the Red-spotted Aster Mirid (Polymerus basalis), an aphid (Uroleucon reynoldense), and the larvae of such moths as the Dimorphic Gray (Tornos scolopacinarius), Wavy-lined Emerald (Synchlora aerata), and Common Tan Wave (Pleuroprucha insulsaria); see Clark et al. (2004), Knight (1941), Blackman & Eastop (2013), Covell (1984/2005), and Wagner (2005) for more information. The larvae of the latter two moths feed on the flowerheads., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/sand_coreopsisx.htm
The nectar and pollen of the flowerheads attract many kinds of insects because of their abundance and accessibility. These insects include digger bees (Melissodes spp.), cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Nomada spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees (including green metallic bees), dagger bees (Calliopsis spp., Heterosarus spp.), Sphecid wasps and other wasps, Syrphid flies (Eristalis spp. and others), bee flies (Exoprosopa spp. and others), thick-headed flies (Conopidae), Tachinid flies, bottle flies (Lucilia spp.), Muscid flies, butterflies, skippers, moths, and beetles (Robertson, 1929). A digger bee, Melissodes coreopsis, is an oligolege (specialist pollinator) of Coreopsis spp. Some insects feed destructively on the plant juices, flowerheads, and other parts of Prairie Coreopsis and other Coreopsis spp. These species include the Red-spotted Aster Mirid (Polymerus basalis), an aphid (Uroleucon reynoldense), the Ragweed Leaf Beetle (Calligrapha bidenticola) and Coreopsis Leaf Beetle (Calligrapha californica coreopsivora), and larvae of such moths as the Dimorphic Gray (Tornos scolopacinarius), Wavy-lined Emerald (Synchlora aerata), and Common Tan Wave (Pleuroprucha insulsaria). The larvae of the latter two moths feed on the flowerheads., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/pr_coreopsisx.htm
Cornus alternifolia L. f. - pagoda dogwood
Flowers are abundant and their sweet scent attracts many insect pollinators: Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, and flies), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), and Coleoptera (beetles). Mining bees (Andrenidae) are frequent dogwood visitors and long-horned beetles of the Cerambycidae Family are drawn to the flowers’ scent. Five species of aphid (Aphididae), thrips (Thripidae), sawflies (Tenthredinidae), and spittlebugs (Chrysomelidae) all dine unobtrusively on dogwood leaves, as do the larvae of Geometer moths (Geometridae) and owlet moths (Noctuidae)., source: https://wildseedproject.net/2015/08/swida-alternifolia-formerly-cornus-alternifolia-alternate-leaved-dogwood-cornaceae/
Dalea purpurea Ventenat - purple prairie clover
The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract many kinds of insects, including honeybees, bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Triepeolus spp., Coelioxys spp.), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leafcutter bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees (including green metallic bees), plasterer bees (Colletes spp.), Sphecid wasps, Tiphiid wasps, Syrphid flies, bee flies (Bombyliidae), thick-headed flies (Conopidae), small butterflies, skippers, and beetles (Robertson, 1929; Reed, 1993, 1995). The following plasterer bees are oligoleges (specialist pollinators) of Dalea spp. (prairie clovers): Colletes albescens, Colletes robertsonii, Colletes susannae, and Colletes wilmattae. Other insects feed destructively on the seeds, foliage, and other parts of Purple Prairie Clover and other prairie clovers. These species include seed-eating larvae of some weevils (Apion reconditum, Apion tenuirostrum, Apion capitone), seed-eating larvae of a beetle (Acanthoscelides seminulum), a plant bug (Lopidea minor), Three-spotted Treehopper (Vanduzea triguttata), Little Pasture Grasshopper (Melanoplus confusus), and larvae of two butterflies, the Dogface Sulphur (Colias cesonia) and Reakirt's Blue (Hemiargus isola); see Sauer (2005), Boe & Johnson (2014), Kingsolver (2004), Knight (1941), Haarstad (2002), Campbell et al. (1974), and Opler & Krizek (1984)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/ppr_cloverx.htm
Desmodium canadense (L.) DeCandolle - Canadian tick trefoil
The most important pollinators of the flowers are long-tongued bees, including bumblebees, Melissodes spp. (long-horned bees), and Megachile spp. (leaf-cutting bees). Other insects feed on the foliage, seeds, and other parts of Showy Tick Trefoil and other Desmodium spp. (tick trefoils). These species include the seed-eating larvae of such weevils as Apion decoloratum and Apion reconditum; Odontota horni (Soybean Leafminer), Pachybrachis othonus, and other leaf beetles; larvae of such gall flies as Choristoneura hamata and Neolasioptera desmodii; Microparsus desmodiorum, Microparsus olivei, and other aphids; the seed-eating Megalotomus quinquespinosus (Lupine Bug); leaf-eating larvae of Atomacera debilis (an Argid sawfly); leaf-eating larvae of such moths as Caloptilia violacella and Parectopa lespedezaefoliella; leaf-eating larvae of such skippers as Thorybes bathyllus (Southern Cloudywing) and Thorybes pylades (Northern Cloudywing); larvae of two butterflies, Everes comyntas (Eastern Tailed Blue) and Strymon melinus (Gray Hairstreak); and Neohydatathrips desmodianus (Tick Trefoil Thrips). The flowering stems of Showy Tick Trefoil are a preferred food source of Popillia japonica (Japanese Beetle), which can weaken this plant sufficiently to interfere with the formation of seedpods., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/shw_trefoilx.htm
Echinacea pallida (Nuttall) Nuttall - pale purple coneflower
Long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers are the most important visitors to the flowers. Long-tongued bees, such as bumblebees, Nomadine cuckoo bees, large carpenter bees, and leaf-cutting bees. Short-tongued green metallic bees and other Halictine bees also visit the flowers occasionally. The caterpillars of the butterfly Chlosyne nycteis (Silvery Checkerspot) feed on the foliage, while caterpillars of the moths Synchlora aerata (Wavy-Lined Emerald) and Eupithecia miserulata (Common Eupithecia) feed on the flowerheads., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/pale_coneflowerx.htm
Eryngium yuccifolium Michaux - rattlesnake master
The flowering heads attract many kinds of insects, including long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, skippers, moths, beetles, and plant bugs. These insects usually seek nectar, although some of the bees may collect pollen for their brood nests. The caterpillars of the rare Papaipema eryngii (Rattlesnake Master Borer Moth) bore into the stems and feed on the pith.; special concern, source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/rattlesnakex.htm
Eupatorium perfoliatum L. - purple boneset
The nectar or pollen of the flowers attracts many kinds of insects, including bees, flies, wasps, butterflies, and beetles. In particular, many kinds of unusual flies and wasps are attracted to the flowers because of the accessibility of the nectar. The caterpillars of various moth species are known to feed on various parts of Common Boneset, including Haploa clymene (Clymene Moth), Phragmatobia lineata (Lined Ruby Tiger Moth), Papaipema cataphracta (Burdock Borer Moth), Schinia trifascia (Three-Lined Flower Moth), Chlorochlamys chloroleucaria (Blackberry Looper Moth), and Semiothisa continuata (Geometrid Moth sp.)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/cm_boneset.htm
The nectar of the flowers attracts honey bees, bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), bee flies, butterflies, skippers, and moths. Some bees may also collect pollen. The following leaf beetles have been observed to feed on Spotted Joe-Pye Weed: Exema dispar, Ophraella notata, and Sumitrosis inaequalis (Clark et al., 2004). An uncommon aphid, Aphis vernoniae, sucks the plant juices. The caterpillars of some moth species feed on various parts of Eutrochium spp. (Joe-Pye Weed species). They include Schinia trifascia (Three-Lined Flower Moth; feeds on florets), Carmenta bassiformis (Eupatorium Borer Moth; bores through roots), Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Ruby Tiger Moth; feeds on foliage), and Eupithecia miserulata (Common Pug; feeds on florets)., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/sp_joepye.htm
Gentiana andrewsii Grisebach - closed bottle gentian
Bumblebees are the primary pollinators of the flowers, as they are one of the few insects that can force their way past the closed corolla. This floral characteristic excludes smaller insects that are less efficient at pollination from robbing nectar and pollen from the bumblebees., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/bt_gentianx.htm
Geum triflorum Pursh - prairie smoke
The flowers are cross-pollinated by bumblebees, which seek primarily nectar from the flowers (Choberka et al., 2000). These insects are strong enough to force their way into the flowers. The adults of a leaf beetle, Graphops marcassita, have been observed to feed on Prairie Smoke (Clark et al., 2004). The larvae of this beetle may also feed on the roots., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/prairie_smoke.html
Pollinators insects and long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, miscellaneous flies, and occasional butterflies. The following bees are oligoleges (specialist pollinators) of sunflowers (Helianthus spp.): Dufourea marginata, Andrena accepta, Andrena helianthi, Andrena aliciae, Melissodes agilis, and Pseudopanurgus rugosus. Other insects feed on the foliage, bore through the stems, feed on the florets and seeds, or suck plant juices from sunflowers. These species include: the leafhoppers Mesamia straminea and Mesamia nigridorsum; the aphids Uroleucon illini and Uroleucon rudbeckiae; the plant bugs Ilnacora stalii and Plagiognathus nigronitens; Haplorhynchities aeneus (Sunflower Head-Clipping Weevil) and Cylindrocopturus adspersus (Sunflower Stem Weevil); the leaf beetles Physonota helianthi and Trirhabda adela; Contarinia schulzi (Sunflower Midge) and Neotephritis finalis (Sunflower Seed Maggot); Melanoplus packardii (Packard's Grasshopper) and Sparagemon collare (Mottled Sand Grasshopper); and the flower thrips Heterothrips auranticornis. In addition to these insects, the caterpillars of such butterflies as Chlosyne gorgone (Gorgone Checkerspot), Chlosyne nycteis (Silvery Checkerspot), and Vanessa cardui (Painted Lady) feed on sunflowers, as do the caterpillars of many moths., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/ws_sunflower.html
The nectar and pollen of the flowerheads attract a wide variety of insects, including honeybees, bumblebees, little carpenter bees (Ceratina spp.), digger bees (Melissodes spp.), cuckoo bees (Coelioxys spp., Triepeolus spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), Halictid bees (Agapostemon spp., Lasioglossum spp.), Andrenid bees (Andrena spp., Heterosarus spp.), thread-waisted wasps (Ammophila spp.) and other wasps, Syrphid flies (Eristalis spp., Toxomerus spp.), bee flies (Exoprosopa spp.), the Goldenrod Soldier Beetle (Chauliognathus pennsylanicus) and other beetles, Painted Lady butterflies (Vanessa spp.) and other butterflies, and skippers (Robertson, 1929). These floral visitors cross-pollinate the flowerheads. Other insects feed on the leaves, stems, seeds, and other parts of False Sunflower. These species include a leaf beetle (Physonota helianthi), leaf-mining larvae of a Tischeriid moth (Astrotischeria heliopsisella), stem-boring larvae of the Rigid Sunflower Borer Moth (Papaipema rigida), floret- and seed-eating larvae of a fly (Melanagromyza virens), and a seed bug (Lygaeus turcicus)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/fs_sunflowerx.htm
The flowerheads are cross-pollinated by bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), butterflies, and skippers. These insects suck nectar, although some of the bees also collect pollen for their larvae. Two uncommon prairie insects feed on Liatris spp. (blazingstars): caterpillars of Schinia sanguinea (Liatris Flower Moth) feed on the florets and developing seeds, while caterpillars of Carmenta anthracipennis (Liatris Borer Moth) bore through the stems., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/msh_blazingstar.htm
Liatris pycnostachya Michaux - great blazing star
The flowers are pollinated primarily by long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers. Other visitors include Halictine bees, bee flies, and day-flying moths. Among the long-tongued bees, are such visitors as honeybees, bumblebees, Little Carpenter bees, Miner bees, and large Leaf-Cutting bees. Butterfly visitors include Monarchs, Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, Sulfurs, Whites, and others. The caterpillars of the rare Schinia gloriosa (Glorious Flower Moth) feed on the flowers and seed capsules., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/pr_blazingstarx.htm
Lobelia siphilitica L. - great lobelia
The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract primarily bumblebees and other long-tongued bees (Anthophora spp., Melissodes spp., Svastra spp.). Less common visitors include the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, large butterflies, and Halictid bees. The Halictid bees collect pollen only and they are non-pollinating. The caterpillars of a moth, Enigmogramma basigera (Pink-washed Looper Moth), feed on the foliage of Great Blue Lobelia (Schweitzer & Roberts, 2007)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/gb_lobeliax.htm
Lupinus perennis L. - wild lupine
The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by honeybees, bumblebees, digger bees (Synhalonia spp.), Mason bees (Osmia spp.), and other long-tongued bees. Other floral visitors include Halictid bees and bee flies. Only pollen is available as a floral reward, which is forcibly ejected into the faces of insects. Occasionally, the Karner Blue and other butterflies visit the flowers, searching for nectar, with no success. Several insects feed on the foliage and other parts of Wild Lupine. These insects include caterpillars of the butterflies Lycaeides melissa samuelis (Karner Blue) and Callophrys irus (Frosted Elfin), and caterpillars of the skippers Erynnis baptisiae (Wild Indigo Duskywing) and Erynnis persius (Persius Duskywing). The caterpillars of several moths also feed on Wild Lupine: Caenurgina crassiuscula (Clover Looper), Grammia phyllira (Phyllira Tiger Moth), Grammia placentia (Placentia Tiger Moth), Utetheisa bella (Bella Moth), and Walshia miscecolorella (Sweet Clover Root Borer). Other insects feeders include Empoasca fabae (Potato Leafhopper), Hadronema militaris (Military Plant Bug), and seed-eating larvae of the weevil Apion minor., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/wild_lupine.htm
Monarda fistulosa L. - wild bergamot
The nectar of the flowers attracts long-tongued bees, bee flies, butterflies, skippers, and hummingbird moths. Among the long-tongued bees, are such visitors as bumblebees, Miner bees, Epeoline Cuckoo bees, and large Leaf-Cutting bees. A small black bee (Dufourea monardae) specializes in the pollination of Monarda flowers. Sometimes Halictid bees collect pollen, while some wasps steal nectar by perforating the nectar tube. The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird also visits the flowers. The caterpillars of the moths Sphinx eremitus (Hermit Sphinx) and Agriopodes teratophora (Gray Marvel) feed on the foliage. A seed bug (Ortholomus scolopax) is sometimes found in the flowerheads., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/wld_bergamotx.htm
Monarda punctata L. - spotted beebalm
The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract honeybees, bumblebees, Miner bees (Melissodes spp.), and Plasterer bees (Colletes spp.); butterflies also visit the flowers of Spotted Bee Balm for nectar, including the endangered Lycaenides melissa samuelis (Karner Blue), which is found in sandy habitats. Insects that feed on the flowers, foliage or stems of Spotted Bee Balm include the caterpillars of the moths Pyrausta orphisalis (Pyralid Moth sp.), Pyrausta signatalis (Pyralid Moth sp.), and Agripodes teratophora (The Gray Marvel); the adults of Strigoderma arboricola (False Japanese Beetle, or Sandhill Chafer); and both nymphs and adults of Cydnoides ciliata (Negro Bug sp.) and Sehirus cinctus (White-Margined Burrower Bug)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/sp_balm.htm
Oenothera biennis L. - common evening primrose
Moths pollinate the flowers, particularly Sphinx moths. Other occasional visitors include the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, honeybees, bumblebees, and Anthedonia compta (Primrose Miner Bee), the latter being an oligolege. These insects seek nectar, although some of the bees collect pollen. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage. This includes Endryas unio (Pearly Wood Nymph), Desmia funeralis (Grape Leaffolder Moth), Hyles lineata (White-Lined Sphinx), and Mompha eloisella (Momphid Moth; bores through stems). Various beetles feed on the foliage, including Popillia japonica (Japanese Beetle), Grahops pubescens (Leaf Beetle sp.), Altica fusconenea (Flea Beetle sp.), and several Curculio beetles., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/cm_primrosex.htm
The tubular flowers of this plant attract long-tongued bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, Anthophorine bees, Miner bees, Mason bees, and large Leaf-Cutting bees. To a lesser extent, Halictid bees, butterflies, Sphinx moths, and hummingbirds may visit the flowers, but they are not effective pollinators. The caterpillars of the moth Elaphria chalcedonia (Chalcedony Midget) feed on the foliage of this and other beardtongues. There have been a few reports that the caterpillars of the butterfly Euphydryes phaeton (Baltimore) feed on the foliage of various beardtongues., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/fx_penstemonx.htm
Phlox pilosa L. - downy phlox
The nectar of the flowers attracts primarily long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers. Other visitors include moths and bee flies. Among the bee visitors are bumblebees, Anthophorine bees, little carpenter bees (Ceratina spp.), cuckoo bees (Nomada spp.), and green metallic bees (Agapostemon spp.). Butterfly and skipper visitors include the American Painted Lady, Sulfur butterflies, Swallowtail butterflies, and Cloudywing skippers. The caterpillars of a moth, Schinia indiana (Prairie Phlox Flower Moth), feeds on the flowers and developing seeds of Prairie Phlox. Other moth caterpillars that feed on the flowers and developing seeds of phloxes (Phlox spp.) include Heliothis turbatus (Spotted Straw) and Heliothis phloxiphaga (Dark-spotted Straw). Other insects feeding destructively on phlox species include Lopidea davis (Phlox Plant Bug), Poecilocapsus lineatus (Four-lined Plant Bug), an aphid (Abstrusomyzus phloxae), and stem-boring larvae of a long-horned beetle (Oberea flavipes)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/pr_phloxx.htm
Bumblebees are the most important pollinators of the flowers. Occasionally, other long-tongued bees and the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird may visit the flowers., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/obed_plantx.htm
Pollinated by early spring insects., source: https://www.morningskygreenery.com/product/anemone-patens-pulsatilla-patens/
Rudbeckia hirta L. - blackeyed Susan
The composite flowers appeal to a wide range of insects, particularly bees and flies, as well as some wasps, butterflies, and beetles. The bees collect pollen or suck nectar, and include Little Carpenter bees, Leaf-Cutting bees, Green Metallic and other Halictine bees, Andrenid bees, and others. Some Andrenid bees, such as Andrena rudbeckiae and Heterosarus rudbeckiae, prefer visiting the flowers of Black-Eyed Susan and closely related plants. Among the flies that visit the flowers, Syrphid flies, Bee flies, and Tachinid flies are well represented. The caterpillars of Chlosyne nycteis (Silvery Checkerspot) feed on the leaves., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/be_susanx.htm
The caterpillars of several skippers feed on the foliage of Little Bluestem, including Atrytonopsis hianna (Dusted Skipper), Hesperia metea (Cobweb Skipper), Hesperia ottoe (Ottoe Skipper), Hesperia sassacus (Indian Skipper), Nastra lherminier (Swarthy Skipper), and Polites origenes (Crossline Skipper) as well as many species of grasshoppers, which feed on the foliage. Other insects that feed on Little Bluestem include Diapheromera velii (Prairie Walkingstick), the leaf-mining beetle Anisostena nigrita, the thrips Illinothrips rossi, Prosapia ignipectus (Black Spittlebug), the Delphacid planthopper Delphacodes parvula, and such leafhoppers as Flexamia albida, Flexamia clayi, Flexamia delongi, Flexamia graminea, Flexamia prairiana, Athysanella incongrua, and Laevicephalus unicoloratus., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/little_bluestem.htm
Securigera varia - crownvetch
The flowers are cross-pollinated by long-tongued bees, including honeybees. Some insects are known to feed on the foliage of Crown Vetch in North America. These species include both adults and larvae of the Bean Leaf Beetle (Cerotoma trifurcata), both adults and larvae of a flea beetle (Disonycha punctigera), larvae of a leaf-miner fly (Liriomyza trifoliearum), larvae of the butterflies, Orange Sulfur (Colias eurytheme) and Melissa Blue (Lycaenides melissa melissa), larvae of the skipper, Wild Indigo Duskywing (Erynnis baptisiae), the Alfalfa Plant Bug (Adelphocoris limbatus), Marmorated Brown Stink Bug (Holcostethus limbolarius), Differential Grasshopper (Melanoplus differentialis), and Red-legged Grasshopper (Melanoplus femurrubrum); see Clark et al. (2004), Spencer & Steyskal (1986), Gucker (2009), Bouseman et al. (2006), Wheeler et al. (1983), and Rider (2009) for more information., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/crown_vetch.htm
Cup Plant is a magnet for red aphids, which can be found in masses on the undersides of leaves, and subsequently become lodging for parasitic wasps and food for predatory insects as well as baby hummingbirds. Long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers are common visitors and the most important pollinators of the flowers. Some short-tongued bees, wasps, bee flies, and other kinds of flies also visit the flowers for pollen or nectar. The larvae of an Antistrophus sp. (Gall Wasp sp.) feed within the stems of this plant, and may attract the hyperparasitic wasp Eurytoma lutea., source: https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/cup-plant, source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/cupplantx.htm
Solidago speciosa Nuttall - showy goldenrod
The flowers attract honeybees, bumblebees, ants, beetles, and the occasional moth or butterfly. Among the beetles, are such visitors as Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus (Goldenrod Soldier Beetle) and Epicauta pensylvanica (Black Blister Beetle). These insects seek nectar primarily. The caterpillars of many moths feed on various parts of this goldenrod and others. Other insect feeders include various leafhoppers, lace bugs, plant bugs, and beetles., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/shw_goldenrodx.htm
Several species of grasshoppers feed on the foliage of Indian Grass; this grass is a preferred host plant of Eritettix simplex (Velvet-striped Grasshopper), Melanoplus confusus (Little Pasture Grasshopper), and Syrbula admirabilis (Handsome Grasshopper). Other insects that feed on Indian Grass include the leafhopper Flexamia reflexa, the Issid planthopper Bruchomorpha extensa, and the caterpillars of Amblyscirtes hegon (Pepper-and-Salt Skipper); see Panzer et al. (2006) and Bouseman et al. (2006)., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/ind_grass.htm
Occasionally, the foliage is eaten by grasshoppers, including Mermiria bivitatta (Two-Striped Slant-faced Grasshopper) and Syrbula admirabilis (Handsome Grasshopper). Prairie Dropseed is the obligate host of two uncommon leafhoppers: Aflexia rubranura (Red-Tailed Leafhopper) and the recently described Memnonia panzeri., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/pr_dropseed.htm
The flowers are visited primarily by long-tongued bees, bee flies, butterflies, and skippers. Short-tongued bees and Syrphid flies also visit the flowers, but they collect pollen primarily and are non-pollinating. Among the long-tongued bees, are such visitors as bumblebees, honeybees, Miner bees, and large Leaf-Cutting bees. Cross-pollination by these insects is essential, otherwise the seeds will be infertile. The caterpillars of many moths feed on various parts of this and other asters. Other insects feeding on this plant include Lygus lineolaris (Tarnished Plant Bug), Poccilocapsus lineatus (Four-Lined Plant Bug), Corythuche marmorata (Chrysanthemum Lace Bug), and Macrosiphum euphoriaca (Potato Aphid)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/ne_asterx.htm
Many insects visit the flowers, including long-tongued bees, short-tongued bees, small to medium-sized butterflies, and skippers. These insects seek nectar primarily, although the bees also collect pollen. Many kinds of insects feed on the foliage and other parts of asters, including the caterpillars of the butterfly Chlosyne nycteis (Silvery Checkerspot) and many moth species., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/aromatic_asterx.htm
The most important pollinators of the flowers are long-tongued bees, especially bumblebees. Other visitors include Halictine bees and Syrphid flies. However, the Syrphid flies feed on stray pollen and are non-pollinating. Spiderwort is rarely bothered by insects, although Lema collaris (Leaf Beetle sp.) reportedly feeds on the foliage., source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/oh_spiderwortx.htm
Verbena hastata L. - blue vervain
The flowers of Blue Vervain attract many kinds of long-tongued and short-tongued bees, including honey bees, bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Triepeolus spp.), digger bees (Melissodes spp.), Halictid bees, and dagger bees (Calliopsis spp.), including the oligolectic Verbena Bee (Calliopsis verbenae). These bees seek primarily nectar, although some species collect pollen. Other floral visitors include Sphecid wasps, Vespid wasps, Syrphid flies, bee flies (Exoprosopa spp.), thick-headed flies (Physocephala spp.), small butterflies, skippers, and moths (Robertson, 1929). Other insects feed on the leaves and other parts of Blue Vervain and other Verbena spp. Examples of such insects include both adults and larvae of a flea beetle (Longitarsus suspectus), larvae of the Vervain Leaf Midge (Clinodiplosis verbenae), the Verbena Aphid (Macrosiphum verbenae), leaf-eating larvae of the Verbena Moth (Crambodes talidiformis), and larvae of the Verbena Bud Moth (Endothenia hebesana)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/bl_vervain.htm
Verbena stricta Ventenat - hoary vervain
Many kinds of insects are attracted to the flowers, including long-tongued bees, green metallic bees, thread-waisted wasps, bee flies, thick-headed flies, butterflies, and skippers. Among the long-tongued bees, the flowers attract such visitors as honeybees, bumblebees, little carpenter bees, cuckoo bees (Triepeolus spp.), miner bees (Melissodes spp.), and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). A specialist visitor of the flowers is Calliopsis verbenae (Verbena Bee). Several grasshoppers feed on the foliage of Hoary Vervain: Hippiscus ocelote (Wrinkled Grasshopper), Melanoplus confusus (Little Pasture Grasshopper), Melanoplus femurrubrum (Red-Legged Grasshopper), and Melanoplus keeleri luridus (Keeler's Grasshopper). Other insect feeders include caterpillars of the moth Catabena lineolata (Fine-Lined Sallow), caterpillars of Crambodes talidiformis (Verbena Moth), and the aphid Macrosiphum verbenae., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/hry_vervainx.htm
Vernonia fasciculata Michaux - bunched ironweed
The flowers attract long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers primarily. Other visitors include bee flies and Halictid bees. These insects seek nectar, although bees also collect pollen. Among the long-tongued bees, are such visitors as bumblebees, Epeoline cuckoo bees, Miner bees, and large Leaf-Cutting bees. An oligolectic bee of Ironweeds is Melissodes vernoniae. The caterpillars of several moths feed on Ironweed, including Grammia parthenice (Parthenice Tiger Moth) and Perigea xanthioides (Red Groundling). Caterpillars that bore into the roots or stems of Ironweed include Papaipema cerussata (Ironweed Borer Moth), Carmenta bassiformis (Eupatorium Borer Moth), and some Polygrammodes spp. (Pyralid Moths)., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/sm_ironweedx.htm
The most common visitors to the flowers are long-tongued and short-tongued bees, which collect pollen or suck nectar. This includes honeybees, bumblebees, Mason bees, Green Metallic bees, Masked bees, and others. Other kinds of insect visitors include Sphecid wasps, butterflies, moths, and Syrphid flies. The latter include species that feed on pollen only and are non-pollinating. Culver's Root doesn't appear to be bothered by leaf-chewing insects, source: https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/culverx.htm
Zizia aurea (L.) W.D.J. Koch - golden alexanders
The flowers are attractive to many kinds of insects seeking pollen or nectar, especially short-tongued bees, wasps, flies, and beetles. Among the short-tongued bees are such visitors as Green Metallic bees, Masked bees, and Andrenid bees (including the oligolege, Andrena ziziae). Wasp visitors include Eumenine wasps, spider wasps, Ichneumonid wasps, and Crabronine wasps. Such long-tongued bees as bumblebees, cuckoo bees (Nomada spp.) also visit the flowers, as do some small butterflies and true bugs. Caterpillars of the butterflies Papilio polyxenes asterius (Black Swallowtail) and Papilio joanae (Ozark Swallowtail) feed on the leaves and flowers, while caterpillars of Papaipema rigida (Rigid Sunflower Borer Moth) bore through the stems. Two aphids, Aphis saniculae and Aphis thaspii, suck plant juices from Golden Alexanders and similar species in the Carrot family., source: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/gld_alexanderx.htm
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