Centris nitida

It is a Neotropical species distributed across tropical regions from Mexico through Central America and into South America. It was first described in 1874 and has been studied ever since as part of that fauna.

It is recognized as an essential pollinator of native trees and crops across its Neotropical range. Because it visits many economically and ecologically significant plants, its activity matters for both wild plant reproduction and regional agriculture.

Species of Centris nest in a variety of substrates, with many using pre-existing cavities in wood or excavating in soil depending on the species and habitat. Observing nest sites of any Centris usually reveals females coming and going singly, as they are solitary bees.

Centris are typically robust, fast-flying bees, and many species show bold banding or dense pale hair on the body. Confident identification of Centris nitida specifically generally requires specialist keys or expert confirmation.