New Record of Predator and Parasitoid on Carpenter Bee Xylocopa fenestrata F.

Xylocopa fenestrata F. is a significant buzz pollinator, playing a vital role in the pollination of various field crops and contributing to the stability and productivity of agroecosystems. In the present study, conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, Vijayarai, Andhra Pradesh, during 2023-2025, detailed observations were made on the nesting biology, nesting preferences, and foraging activity of X. fenestrata. The artificial nesting substrates made from bamboo nodes were deployed to monitor and document the nesting behavior of this species. The study also identified two natural enemies associated with X. fenestrata nests: a predator belonging to the genus Horia (Coleoptera: Meloidae), and a parasitoid, Coelopencyrtus krishnamurtii (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae). Out of the 400 nests installed, 60 (15%) were infested with predator/parasitoid. These findings highlight previously ecological interactions and potential threats faced by this important pollinator and have significant implications for its conservation and management.