Ants of various species have been found to invade nests in some Xylocopa species.
Specifically, Monomorium gracillimum have been observed to invade the nests of X. pubescens.
The ants dig small holes in the tunnel walls of X. pubescens to get into the nest.
No confrontation occurs, as the mother attempts to remove as many of her brood as she can before the destruction of the nest and all brood cells.
Additionally, because nesting takes place in wood, termites have been found to infiltrate nests, eat the walls, and fill it with refuse.
Birds have also been observed to feed on X. pubescens, specifically the woodpecker species Dendrocopos syriacus in Mediterranean regions.
Ants of various species have been found to invade nests in some Xylocopa species. Specifically, Monomorium gracillimum have been observed to invade the nests of X. pubescens. The ants dig small holes in the tunnel walls of X. pubescens to get into the nest. No confrontation occurs, as the mother attempts to remove as many of her brood as she can before the destruction of the nest and all brood cells. Additionally, because nesting takes place in wood, termites have been found to infiltrate nests, eat the walls, and fill it with refuse. Birds have also been observed to feed on X. pubescens, specifically the woodpecker species Dendrocopos syriacus in Mediterranean regions.
Xylocopa pubescens