Aspectos comportamentais dos machos de abelhas euglossíneas da região cacaueira da Bahia

This work investigated the behavior of euglossine males from the cacao region of Bahia, related the studied group to the environment to evaluate a sampling method and identify possible sources of subjectivity in the interpretation of results related to the ecology of these bees. The study area lies between the coordinates 14o36'0" S; 39o17'0" W e 15o18'0" S, 39o5'00" W. covering Ilhéus, Itabuna, Una and Uruçuca. Bees were collected from February to April 2000, attracted with essences (cineole 1.8, methyl salicylate, benzyl acetate, eugenol and vanillin) in traps 1.3 m from the ground and placed 5 to 10 m apart. These areas were sampled for two hours on sunny mornings. The results show the period of greatest activity - 9:00 to 11:00; Existence of competition between species, possibly for territory and odorous resource, which may result in underestimation of abundance and richness; The number of individuals collected with pollinaria attached to the body, in March, indicates the orchid flowering period. In December and March, there was greater abundance and richness of euglosine males, coinciding with the peak of orchid abundance. Interiors of forests and extensive fragments, with preserved canopy and complex matrix were the most preferred environments by euglossine males.