Help with the meaning of maculata, please

[Dillybythesea]

This time last year we had these delightful Anthophora bimaculata along the rockery, and somebody we know currently has Anthophora quadrimaculata visiting their catmint. My question is why 'maculata' - which my Stearn's Plant Dictionary has as 'spotted'?

[htcdude]

Yup as far as I know 'maculata' is spotted or speckled, 'bimaculata' is two-spotted

Nige

[Jackaroo]

Originally Posted by htcdude

Yup as far as I know 'maculata' is spotted or speckled, 'bimaculata' is two-spotted

Nige

But where are the spots referred to on the insect? I just see stripes.

[htcdude]

Originally Posted by Jackaroo

But where are the spots referred to on the insect? I just see stripes.

Maybe this particular uses Clearasil??

Nige

[Dillybythesea]

But seriously, hctdude....!! The likes of Jackaroo and I need to know!

[htcdude]

Unfortunately I don't know I'm afraid!

Lots of mysteries in nature. The Black-headed Gull doesn't have a black head. Purple Finches are more red than anything. And certain maculata's don't have spots!

Nige

[Jackaroo]

The definition of 'macula' is indeed 'spot': but can also be qualified as 'stain' which broadens the usage of the word slightly.But even with this distinction, where do you start looking for the 'spots' or 'stains' in the first place ? This is probably going to turn out to be something that can only be resolved under a microscope, I can feel it in my water.

You can never find an expert when you want one !!!

[jaguarondi]

Hence the origin of the word 'immaculate' - without stains or blemishes

[Dillybythesea]

I feel we're making progress, and yet...

[Matt Smith]

Possibly something to do with the yellow markings on the mandibles of the female, one each side would equate to "bimaculata" - 2 spots.