Leioproctus eremitulus, or Leioproctus (Leioproctus) eremitulus, is a species of bee in the family Colletidae and subfamily Colletinae. It is endemic to Australia. It was described by Australian entomologist Terry Houston in 1990.

Etymology The specific epithet eremitulus (Latin: "of the desert") is a habitat and forage plant reference.

Description The male holotype body length is about 6.5 mm, head width 1.85 mm; female paratype body length is about 8 mm, head width 2.25 mm. Integumental colouration is mainly black; the hair is white to off-white and buff.

Distribution and habitat The species occurs in arid central Australia. The type locality is 45 km east-north-east of Dalhousie Homestead, in the Far North region of South Australia.

Behaviour The adults are flying mellivores. Flowering plants visited by the bees include Eremophila freelingii and Ruellia species.

References