Phylogenomic systematics of the mining bee subgenus Callandrena (Hymenoptera: Andrenidae) based on ultraconserved elements

Monday, November 11, 2024

9:00 AM – 9:12 AM MST

Location: Phoenix Convention Center, 224 B, PCC

Presenting Author(s)

Kayun Lim (she/her/hers)

PhD student
Utah State University
Logan, Utah

Co-Author(s)

MB

Michael G. Branstetter

Research Entomologist
USDA-ARS
Logan, Utah

Callandrena is a subgenus within the genus Andrena (Hymenoptera: Andrenidae), comprising 86 species. It is recognized as the largest entirely Nearctic subgenus, ranging from Southern Canada to Panama and across the United States. All Callandrena species are specialists on Asteraceae, utilizing plants from five different tribes. Despite their fascinating biology and host plant specialization, a taxonomic revision of this subgenus is needed. In this study, we aimed to test the monophyly of Callandrena with an expanded taxon sampling and to identify species groups within major clades, particularly Callandrena sensu stricto by employing a phylogenomic approach using Ultraconserved Elements (UCEs). Our findings will provide a basis for future research on the taxonomy, biogeography, and evolutionary history of host preference in Callandrena.