Current state of knowledge on the biology and breeding of the solitary bee - Osmia bicornis

This review gathers the majority of foregoing information about the red mason bee (Osmia bicornis, syn. rufa) (Apoidea: Megachilidae) and elaborates on the following issues: taxonomy and morphology, distribution, reproduction and sex ratios, nesting, life cycle, and daily activity, metabolic changes, accompanying organisms (including parasites), flower preferences and pollination, and breeding. To make forthcoming studies about O. bicornis bees more comprehensive, the authors also identified knowledge gaps.

Automated summary

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the red mason bee, covering aspects such as taxonomy, morphology, distribution, nesting habits, life cycle, daily activity, metabolic changes, accompanying organisms, flower preferences, pollination, and breeding. The authors also identified gaps in knowledge to guide future studies on O. bicornis bees.