Leioproctus lucanus, or Leioproctus (Leioproctus) lucanus, 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 lucanus is an anatomical reference, likening the pincer-like mandibles of the males to those of some Lucanus beetles.
Description The male holotype body length is about 11 mm, head width 4.25 mm; female paratype body length 8.5 mm, head width 2.6 mm. Integumental colouration is mainly black; the hair is mainly white.
Distribution and habitat The species occurs in central Australia. The type locality is 2 km south of Hamilton Homestead in the Far North of South Australia.
Behaviour The adults are flying mellivores. Flowering plants visited by the bees include Eremophila willsii, Eremophila spathulata and Scaevola spinescens.
References