- Family: Megachilidae
- Tribe: Megachilini
- Approximate # species in region: 13
- Common name: sharptail bees
Coelioxys is a genus of cleptoparasites of Megachile, easily identified by the spines on the rear end of the thorax and the abdomen that tapers to a point (in females) or is tipped with spines (in males). Coelioxys females use their pointed abdomen to slit open the brood cells of their host so that they can lay an egg inside.
Species covered:
| Scientific Name | Common Name | Phenology | Habitat | Forage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coelioxys dolichos | Summer | Widespread, gardens, tied to host | Generalist, esp. Asteraceae, mountain mint Pycnanthemum |